Children and families across Croydon will benefit from four new playgrounds as the Council continues its investment in parks and green spaces.
Milne Park in New Addington, Courtwood Playground in Forestdale, Mayfield Road in Thornton Heath and Rickman Hill in Coulsdon are set to get new play equipment as part of Croydon Council’s investment in the borough’s parks.
Within the first 100 days of his second term, Executive Mayor Jason Perry has announced the first four playground projects under his pledge to deliver 16 new playgrounds across Croydon by 2030.
The investment is part of the Council’s plan to improve the borough’s parks which has delivered 12 new playgrounds during the past four years.
It also follows the opening by Executive Mayor Perry of new outdoor gyms in Addiscombe Rec and Upper Norwood Rec, funded by the Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with two further opening this month in Selsdon Rec and Higher Drive in Kenley.
The four playground locations were decided by the age of current equipment, their condition and the number of children in the local area.
Residents will have a chance to have their say on the designs once a contractor has been chosen and initial plans produced. Work is set to start in the autumn.
These upgrades are part of the Playground Investment Programme (PIP), which is funded through Section 106 obligations – money the Council receives from developers to improve local infrastructure – and capital funding from central government.
“I committed to delivering four new playgrounds every year during my second term, creating 16 new playgrounds across the borough by 2030.
“I am delighted that, within the first 100 days of this term, I have announced the first four locations that will benefit from this investment.
“This builds on the 12 playgrounds already delivered over the past four years and sits alongside our commitment to also deliver 16 outdoor gyms over the next four years, helping residents of all ages enjoy healthier and more active lifestyles.
“Our parks and green spaces are among Croydon’s greatest assets. By investing in them, we are creating more opportunities for children to play, families to spend time together outdoors and residents to enjoy high-quality local facilities.
“This is another example of how we are investing in the things that matter to residents and making Croydon a cleaner, safer and healthier borough that we can all be proud to call home.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
