Work starts on £70,000 transformation of children’s play area

A £70,000 revamp of Dawley Park play area will see exhilarating new equipment installed broadening its appeal to all ages and abilities.

It’s part of a £3.75 million ‘On Your Side’ investment by Telford & Wrekin Council to improve flagship parks, green spaces and play areas across the borough. The council is contributing £50,000 to the upgrade at Dawley Park with the remaining £20,000 provided by Great Dawley Town Council. The investment will help Dawley Park retain its Green Flag status.

A £750,000 investment has previously been announced for a number of play areas identified as most in need of improvement. One project already completed is replacement of the soft surface at the BMX track at Alma Fields, Malinslee, so that scooters as well as bikes can use it.

One of the most exciting pieces of equipment for Dawley Park will be a 30-metre-long double zip-wire, the first in the borough. There will also be challenging six-metre-high climbing ropes to test children’s strength and stamina and a WeHopper that will thrill as it spins and rocks.

In line with residents’ desire to see play areas made more accessible, the council is installing a ground-level roundabout suitable for wheelchairs, prams and pushchairs. Many of the play area improvements will feature sign language panels making them even more inclusive.

Cllr Shaun Davies, Chairman of Great Dawley Town Council and Leader of Telford & Wrekin Council said:

“The investment into Dawley Park play area shows we are on the side of families and as a council are leaders in children’s play and promoting and encouraging it.

“As a father, I know how important play is for children for their development. I’m delighted that the upgrade will deliver a high-quality play area with equipment that stimulates and challenges, meaning even more young people can enjoy it.”