Children can now enjoy two new playgrounds in Canterbury Road and Whitehorse Road Recreation Grounds following their official opening by Croydon Council as part of a series of investments to improve the borough’s parks.
Executive Mayor, Jason Perry and cabinet member for streets and environment Councillor Scott Roche inspected the parks, with local mum Emily Frost and son Newton aged 3 helping with the ribbon cutting ceremony at Whitehorse Recreation Ground.
The playgrounds in Broad Green and Selhurst cost around £120,000 each to build and include wheelchair friendly and sensory equipment.
As part of the Playground Investment Programme they are being funded through Section 106 obligations – money the council receives from developers for local infrastructure – and capital funding, and were subject to competitive tender to get the best possible value for money.
The playgrounds were developed following engagement with the community and through working collaboratively with the fantastic local Friends of Parks groups.
They replace two nearby playgrounds which have reached the end of their operational lives. Materials from the old playgrounds will be reused or recycled where possible.
“The two new playgrounds are part of a series of investments in our greenspaces to encourage more residents to be active and enjoy the wonderful outdoor spaces that we have in the borough.
“It is so important to offer well-equipped play spaces for our young people to enjoy. These playgrounds are fantastic assets where our children and young people can thrive and grow.
“We are committed to finding ways to ensure continued investment in our parks so that residents can enjoy and get the most out of their local parks as we restore pride in these precious places.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
If you would like to get more involved in your local park, why not join your local Friends of Park group.
