[A] community has been celebrating the official opening of a new state-of-the-art play area.
More than 100 people attended a special event to mark the completion of the Rinkfield Play Area in Kendal.
The joy followed four years of hard work by the Rinkfield Area Community Group who, along with South Lakeland District Council (SLDC), raised more than £80,000 to design and build the new play area.
The opening was performed by the Chairman of SLDC, Cllr Eric Morrell, who praised the efforts of all those who had been involved in a project which would continue to provide enjoyment for many years to come.
There was extensive public consultation on what the playground should offer and it was specifically designed to meet the needs of a wide range group.
Another key issue was to improve accessibility in and around the site.
The opening ceremony was attended by Cllr David Fletcher, SLDC’s Portfolio Holder for Environment, who said: “The standard of play areas is going up and up and everyone who was involved in this one has done a fantastic job.
“This is an excellent example of community engagement and what can be achieved by working together.
“Our parks and open spaces are very important and this new playground really enhances the area. It will encourage young people to enjoy the fresh air in a pleasant and safe environment and I am sure it will bring a lot of pleasure to the whole community.”
Rinkfield Area Community Group chairman, Gary Tomlinson, said: “I was particularly impressed by the generosity of those who kindly donated money to the project.
“This play area was the idea of a few young people who told us exactly what they wanted. I’m really pleased we had the patience, enthusiasm and support to see it through.”
