500 New Play Areas Opening This Easter
Over 500 new or refurbished play areas across England have opened ahead of the Easter holidays, the Children’s Secretary Ed Balls has announced.The 500 play sites, which are part of the £235m play investment announced in the flagship Children’s Plan, will be open for children and young people in 63 local authorities.
By 2011 the Government’s investment will have created 3,500 new or renewed play areas for children in the areas of greatest need and 30 adventure playgrounds across the country as part of the commitment announced in the first ever national play strategy.
The DCSF has written to all Local Authorities to ensure they are consulting with local children, young people and parents in designing the new playgrounds and to find out where they want to see them built.
Children’s Secretary Ed Balls said: “I am delighted to announce the opening of the 500 areas. Fun and exciting opportunities to play are at the heart of a happy, healthy and enjoyable childhood. Better outdoor play opportunities are good for children, good for families and good for communities.
“We’ve spent a lot of time talking to children and young people to get their views which we’ve used to build these sites and I want to ensure that the views of children, young people, parents and the wider community are fully taken on board when new sites are being developed. They provide a free and fun site for children of all abilities to get outside and run around in a safe environment.”
In 2008, the DCSF received the views of over 9,000 children, young people and parents on what they would most like from their local play sites.
As a result of the consultation, 89 local authorities are being offered funding from April 2009 on top of 63 already in the programme. All top tier local authorities will get at least £1m, and 30 pathfinders will get on average £2.5m to build new or significantly refurbish existing play areas.
Children’s Minister Delyth Morgan said: “Providing local places that are inclusive, fun and adventurous will encourage children and young people of all ages to get outside and enjoy being physically active. Outdoor play has countless benefits to children and we know that it is key to a happy and enjoyable childhood.
“As a result of the 500 new areas, thousands of children will play their way through their Easter holidays, and with over 3,000 sites still to come, children everywhere will have access to these opportunities.”
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