Children enchanted with new play area

Children were delighted recently when ‘Ariel’ and ‘Thor’ – from the Enchanted Isle party company – joined with Sovereign Housing Association’s property team to officially reopen a newly refurbished play area in Nelson Road.

Catering specifically for under 8’s, the play area is equipped with brightly coloured toddler and junior play equipment, inclusive swings and roundabout, and a multi-play unit and play panels. 

Before work began - Nelson Road Park Community Project, a newly formed local residents’ group - consulted the community about the future of the tired-looking park and the equipment they wanted in the play areas. 

Sovereign provided over £42,000 in funding and local children and residents helped to design the park, which was installed by Wicksteed in June. The refurbishment also included much needed park gates, signs and fencing.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was organised by the Nelson Road Park Community Project, with goody bags given to children by Wicksteed to mark the occasion. Free refreshments were provided and characters from Enchanted Isle entertained the children to ensure a fun morning was had by all. 

Chair of Nelson Road Park Community Project, Sue Pearce, on behalf of the committee, said: “The day was amazing - smiling faces, happy kids. Parents had nothing but good comments about the park and the committee. We received personal thanks from so many people which makes all of our hard work worthwhile.”

Becky Haydock, Sovereign’s Community Development Officer, said: “It was lovely to see everyone having a great time enjoying the new facilities. The Project committee has worked hard to make their vision a reality. By working together, Sovereign has made a positive impact in the Nelson Road community.”