King George V Playground Renovation, Shurdington Parish Council, Glos

This is a project to replace and upgrade existing playground equipment no longer fit for purpose at the King George V Playground in Shurdington.

There are 324 children living in the village under the age of ten. The current equipment at the playground is only suitable for toddlers. The anticipated new equipment would provide facility for a wider age range of children and children with physical disabilities. It will also provide features that will help develop children’s visual and auditory systems. The new playground will be fenced, the existing one is not. There is a plan to provide seating within the play area for adults to socialise and build networks.

The population of Shurdington Village is 2,584. 22% of the households are living in social housing. Many of which are in flats which means these children have limited access to green space and play equipment. 87 of the households are single parent families who the playground would provide both children and their parents an environment to socialise in, which could improve physical, mental health, and wellbeing. It will open opportunities for building friendships and networks. There is no play equipment for older children or those with special needs. There are no other playgrounds nearer than three miles, which is a problem for a high percentage of families who do not have access to a vehicle. The current playground is used but it is not a central focal point and is being used less and less as it is so uninspiring and limited. This project will address the lack of facilities and provide a positive and healthy focal point for local families.