Plans for a proposed refurbishment of the Carliol Drive play area, Carlisle have been given the thumbs up by local residents.
Carlisle City Council is planning to install new play and outdoor exercise equipment then completely re-surface the area. The council asked local residents what kind of equipment they’d like to see installed and launched a public consultation.
The consultation was held between Friday 20 September and Friday 11 October 2019. In addition to the online consultation, printed feedback forms were also available at Petteril Bank Community Centre and Botcherby Community Centre.
The new equipment will be funded by Carlisle City Council with contributions from Cumbria Waste Management Environment Trust and will include a combination of children’s play equipment and adult outdoor exercise equipment.
Cllr Elizabeth Mallinson, Portfolio holder for Communities, Health and Wellbeing, said: “We would like to thank all the residents and members of the local community that took the time to take part in the consultation. The overall feedback was extremely positive. Their views have will have an impact on the final plans and we will make sure that all the new equipment is high quality, robustly built and installed on suitable safety surfacing.
“Access to opportunities for physical activity, either through organised sport, informal recreation or play is essential to combat the health issues children are experiencing due to the lack of exercise and weight issues. Play has been proven to improve and maintain children’s physical and mental health whilst also promoting increased self-esteem, developing confidence and enhancing social skills. Taking part in leisure activities as a family is also beneficial for children because the process helps to model healthy ways to handle stress and emotions.”
Following the consultation, the council will carry out some research into the potential costs for providing play area fencing and develop a specification for new play equipment, outdoor exercise equipment and associated safety surfacing which will be distributed to potential suppliers. The tendering process will take place this winter, with a view to carrying out installation in Spring 2020.
