The New Play Area, Ashleworth Parish Council, Glos

This project is to enclose the play area and completely replace the old, outdated play equipment resulting in a modern, safe and well-equipped play area for the expanding population of the village of Ashleworth and nearby villages. Ashleworth village has expanded over the last ten years with two developments with 77 new dwellings. This has increased the local population by 25-30% and many of these are young families. Although the village is lucky to have a village shop and post office, an actively used village hall, a primary school and Woodpeckers Sports Club, facilities for small children are extremely limited and this play area is essential to many. Families have been driving to other play areas; the aim is to bring the community back home, which then helps the infrastructure of the village, local facilities thrive, and children have fun. The re-equipped play area will be another crucial part of the village infrastructure and will help to maintain a very active local community.