Phase 1 of the scheme is now complete, replacing the old equipment with a range of new and exciting items. Equipment is provided for children of all ages and abilities, including a level-access roundabout and inclusive cradle swing a well as challenging climbing and spinning equipment.

A secure toddler’s area has been created following requests from parents, while the remaining area is open to encourage play to extend into the park more widely and allow room for future expansion.

Work on phase 2 of the scheme will commence in September, allowing local children to enjoy the new play area for the rest of the summer holidays. This will include the creation of a play mound and slide, a balance trail, sensory planting and new paths.

The scheme is being funded through local contributions from housing developers for improvements to open space, and supported by a £30,000 grant from WREN, a local landfill tax grant operator.

Children and adults alike can enjoy refreshments on the park at the recently opened ‘Poppies’ Café, run by volunteers from the Hucknall Christian Centre. The café will open every day for the rest of the summer holidays.

Meanwhile, construction is set to start on the creation of a new play space in the north of Hucknall, on Washdyke Lane Recreation Ground.

This area was found to be short on play opportunities in Ashfield’s play strategy and £100,000 has been secured from local housing developers to address this.

The play area will be carefully sited and designed to discourage anti-social behaviour.Consultation will be taking place on the Recreation Ground on Wednesday 20th August between 4pm and 7pm. Children will have the chance to design their own play space as well as trying out play equipment and games.

Consultation on another proposed play area improvement, Albert Street Recreation Ground, is set to take place later this summer. Watch this space!

For information on both these schemes, please contact Planning Policy and Projects at Ashfield District Council on 01623 450000.