The opening of new play equipment at Alice Park in Bath has been welcomed by children and families, following a major upgrade by the Alice Park Sub-Committee.
Officially reopening the park following the upgrade work | Photo © B&NES Council
The new features, which were opened in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on 20th September, include rope trail swings, timber play equipment for under-fives and impact-absorbing surfacing to give a more natural look and feel to the park.
The perimeter fence has also been moved to create extra picnic space under the pine trees. The improvements are the first phase in a project to upgrade the park after £125,000 funding was secured by the Alice Park Trust, which manages the site on behalf of the council.
The funding includes £75,000 allocated by the council from the 16th round of the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) for Bath.
Councillor Sarah Warren, deputy council leader and cabinet member for sustainable B&NES, said: “It is wonderful that so many families are enjoying the new play features at Alice Park, which reflect our commitment to creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where children can have fun and connect with nature.
“The new play area is a great example of how CIL funding makes a real difference in our community and how partnership working can successfully transform our green spaces. Well done to everyone involved in this great achievement.”
The trust is planning Phase 2 of the works, which will be focused on facilities for older children, particularly girls aged between nine and 14.
“Donations can be made towards the Phase 2 via the council website and the Trust welcomes interest from businesses interested in sponsoring equipment.
Councillor Joanna Wright, chair of the Alice Park Trust, said: “This project shows what partnership between the Trust, local families and our contractor can achieve.
“The new play area looks wonderful, feels safer and more welcoming, and sits naturally within the park. Thank you to everyone who supported Phase 1 and to the contractor, Playtime by Fawns, for completing the works ahead of schedule.
“To discuss sponsorship or community partnerships, please contact me via email at [email protected].”
Jonathan Harris, a resident and parent, said: “As a parent of two boys aged two and seven, the new playground at Alice Park is simply a massive improvement; it feels much more aimed at parents having fun with their children, rather than just observing, it’s safer, much more in keeping than the old park, and keeps our boys entertained for hours.
“It would be great to see the rest of the park brought up to the same level for the older kids, including our own as they grow!”
Bath & North East Somerset Council is the sole trustee of the park, which is managed by the Alice Park Trust Sub-Committee under delegation of the Charitable Trust Board.
