Borough wins Lottery cash to fund massive play scheme

7.31.45pm GMT Fri 28th Dec 2007

Almost £300,000 of BIG Lottery money will fund a massive expansion of outdoor play opportunities for children and young people locally, Richmond Council has announced.

The grant will support a new borough-wide play strategy that will significantly increase recreational facilities for 8 to 15 year olds. It will include a team of Play Rangers who will coordinate and organise activities in five priority areas: Ham, Heathfield, Hampton Nursery Lands, Mortlake and Castelnau. They will be managed in partnership with Marble Hill Play Centre. There will also be improved year-round play opportunities for children with disabilities at the Marble Hill Adventure Playground. The strategy was announced in the summer following extensive consultation with young people, parents and carers.

Cllr Martin Elengorn, Cabinet Member for Environment, said: "I am delighted that we have secured this important funding. Young people and their parents told us that they wanted plenty of opportunities for play, in safe, stimulating environments. We wholeheartedly agree. Children and young people should be able to kick a football around in the park, ride their bikes or just hang out with their friends. This funding will help make these aims a reality as we work with the police and other partners to provide more leisure opportunities for all young people who live, visit or go to school in our borough. The Play Rangers will be a particularly welcome addition in our priority areas, organising sports and craft activities or simply providing a safe environment for youngsters to test their own limits."