Delight as play area revamp launched

The facility on Woodhurst Drive in Standish will be refurbished using money given by house-building companies for working on new developments in the area.

The play area will have a multi-unit, swings and other pieces of inclusive equipment, all set on a sand-filled carpet surface.

The Standish facility was selected to receive attention after a list was drawn up of the areas for young people in the borough in most urgent need of work.

Standish independent members George and Debbie Fairhurst expressed their delight the work is now starting, saying they pushed for the renovations when elected members were asked to nominate the most pressing priorities for their wards.

Coun George Fairhurst said: “We’ve been waiting for this for a few months now so it’s great news the work is going to be done.”

Coun Debbie Fairhurst added: “We are pleased the play area is being given a new lease of life and new equipment is being installed. It will bring the play area up to date like Ashfield Park which Coun George Fairhurst and I campaigned to get updated.”

Councillor swings into action at play park

The money for the refurbishment comes from the section 106 agreements construction firms have to sign when planning new housing in order to boost leisure facilities and infrastructure in the area.

News of the Standish development has also been welcomed by the local authority’s ruling Labour cabinet.

Coun David Molyneux, authority deputy leader and portfolio holder for the economy, said: “The funding for the play area has come from housing developers through the section 106 agreement. The new scheme will bring the area back to life and will be a great local asset for local families and children.”