The long-awaited upgrade of the upper play area in Keynsham’s Memorial Park has suffered another setback after Bath & North East Somerset Council received no tenders for the job.
The Memorial Park play area in Keynsham
The town council looks after the facilities under an agreement with B&NES Council.
After the disappointing news was posted on Facebook last week by B&NES councillor George Leach (Keynsham North, Liberal Democrat), there were several comments of criticism.
One person posted: “How is that play parks in Bath. (e.g. Calton Road and Alice Park) have had major upgrades in the last year and yet the council can’t find anyone to bid for Keynsham Memorial Park? … Just feels like Keynsham are being left behind yet again whilst all the investment goes to Bath.”
This week, Councillor Sarah Warren, Liberal Democrat cabinet member for Sustainable Bath and North East Somerset, said: “Refurbishment of the upper play area at Keynsham Memorial Park was advertised for tender for six weeks earlier this year in accordance with best practice procurement processes.
“We are disappointed that we didn’t receive any tenders by the closing date or any feedback from contractors. Unfortunately, this reflects the current situation in the construction and play equipment markets.
“We know this will also be disappointing for residents who want to see improvements made to the play area as soon as possible.
“We’ll now be re-tendering targeted at a wider range of landscapers, which we expect will attract more interest.
“This will give the project the best chance of progressing, so that it could be possible for construction to start in September – avoiding disruption to Keynsham Music Festival and to families enjoying the summer holidays in the park.”
Meanwhile, last Friday, 17th April, the council announced the opening of the newly-refurbished play area at Burnt House Road in Bath.
In response to the post on Facebook, Labour Keynsham town councillor Martin Burton commented: “Looks good, Keynsham continues to wait for its refurbishment, four years behind schedule, look forward to news about our park.”
