HS2 has granted Fradley and Streethay Parish Council in Staffordshire £75,000 to refurbish Streethay Play Park and make it more accessible to all age groups
Nearby housing residents have highlighted the popularity of the green space, with new equipment planned to include a zip wire and a roundabout that will be accessible to wheelchair users.
The council will also create areas aimed at catering to adults and teens by providing exercise machines and a cleared area for ball games.
In addition to the new equipment, the parish council also plans to establish a new woodland area, installing bird houses, insect hotels, and bat boxes that will blend the site with the local environment and provide a nearby home for bugs, butterflies, bees and birds.
Funding for the refurbishment was awarded through the Community and Environment fund set up by HS2. The fund allows local community groups and organisations to apply for funding, with 175 projects already receiving over £10m to date.
‘An important investment in the future of the local area’
Cathy Elliot, independent chair of HS2 CEF Funds, said: “The renewal of Streethay’s Play Park is an important investment in the future of the local area that will also provide local young people and families with a place they can connect to local wildlife. I’m pleased the parish council has been successful in securing funding for this project.”
“The HS2 Funds are available to support local communities and businesses that are impacted by the construction of HS2.”
‘Fantastic news for Streethay’
Streethay parish councillor Kath Hull also commented: “This is fantastic news for Streethay and we are looking forward to providing some new facilities at this very popular play area.
“The new equipment will include a wheelchair-accessible roundabout and some sensory equipment as well as a new path to provide better access to the school. We are also adding a zip wire and some fitness equipment so that there is benefit for all ages.”
