A POPULAR play area in the town has undergone a major refurbishment as part of the council’s mission to renew our neighbourhoods.

The facilities at Berecroft have needed repair for some time and the council has worked with the Berecroft Residents Association to come up with plans which have now been completed thanks to a £29,000 investment from the council.

Works included five-a-side football and volleyball court lining, new goals and nets, a cycle track complete with a roundabout and zebra crossing, hopscotch floor lining, snakes and ladders floor lining, new floodlights and a timer clock to control them. Three new benches have also been installed.

Further funds from the Neighbourhood Renewal Fund have been allocated to supply more playground and play area upgrades over the coming months.

Cllr Nicky Purse, Cabinet Member for Environment and Sustainability, said:

“The new equipment at Berecroft looks fantastic, is built to last and will bring much enjoyment to people of all ages. The new cycle track particularly is a great addition for younger children to practice on their bikes safely. It is a great example of the council working with residents to renew our neighbourhoods and upgrade facilities which are at the heart of the local community.

“There is much more in the pipeline as we prepare to start work on other play areas across the town, with work at Barn Mead and Guilfords set to begin shortly. This is all part of our mission to renew our neighbourhoods to restore pride in our communities and provide facilities that everyone can enjoy.”

Zulqar Cheema, Chair of the Berecroft Residents Association, said:

“We are pleased to get the project finally done and as we wanted it. With the help of Councillor Gunn, who managed to get us the funding to start the project, and HTS who made sure that our vision was properly realised, we now have a space which makes the place more friendly and colourful, and is a magnet for the children to use the area.”

Other residents have also responded positively to the completed project:

“Thank you, the kids thought it was great and loved playing the floor games and running around the track. X”

“Awesome, Looks lovely, thank you Berecroft Residents Association and everyone that made it happen.”