A well-used village play area has been transformed thanks to money secured through a nearby housing development.
North Hill Parish Council applied to Cornwall Council for funding towards revamping a play area in the village, which is between Launceston and Callington, after an inspection showed that most of the equipment needed to be replaced.
A total of just over £30,000 was given to the project from what is known as Section 106 funding, with the Parish Council making up the rest of the anticipated £44,000 cost.
When a planning application is approved, Cornwall Council secures money through a Section 106 agreement. This cash is spent on improvements in the wider area, from road schemes or new play parks to community facilities.
In the case of North Hill, the funding was secured from a development of 13 new homes on land opposite Lynher Close, near to the village hall where the play area is located.
Work has now been completed, with new swings, a roundabout, slides and climbing frames all in place, alongside a covered seating area that can be used by people of all ages.
Mary Budge, chair of North Hill Parish Council, said: “The S106 money from the new development in North Hill has been a tremendous help to us as a parish council.
“To be able to install seven new pieces of play equipment into our existing park is a great asset, as the play area is used a lot by families in the village and further afield.
“The children have been so excited watching the equipment being installed and couldn’t wait for the time when they could use it!
“The play area now caters for toddlers to teenagers, as well as wheelchair users.”
Olly Monk, Cornwall Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing and Planning, said: “The planning process plays a key role in helping to enhance community facilities on a wider level and this is a prime example of that.
“While new homes are needed across Cornwall, it’s important that the benefits are felt by communities at large, not just those who will be living in new developments.”
Adrian Parsons, Cornwall Council local member for Altarnun and Stoke Climsland, said: “It’s great to have received funding for the North Hill play park.
“Working alongside the parish council, this investment has enabled us to improve and upgrade the play equipment within our village. Hopefully this will provide an excellent safe outdoor space for our children to enjoy for many years ahead.”
Story posted on October 25, 2021