Whitaker Park - a jewel for Rossendale!

Date published: 12 April 2008

Rossendale Borough Council, working alongside Groundwork Pennine Lancashire and with the support Whitaker Park Action Group and the local community have been investing their efforts into breathing new life into Whitaker Park.

Whitaker Park and its potential for play was highlighted as a priority for improvement through the recent publication of the Open Space and Play Strategies for Rossendale.

There are two elements to the proposed improvements at Whitaker Park:

1. Long Term Vision - Through consultation and events and discussions with the local community / residents over the past two years a master plan has been created. This master plan depicts what improvements need to take place in order to fully modernise the park, improve facilities in order to maximise use and enjoyment for the people of Rossendale. Rossendale Borough Council wants proposed improvements to be recognised and this will be achieved through applying for Green Flag Status (Please see notes to the editor). Through delivering the master plan and working towards gaining Green Flag Status we hope to improve provision for children's play, youth provision, improve access and signage through improvements to footpath surface, lighting and seating. We also aim to use the park area for more activities and events and advertise these borough-wide. Please note that all improvements rely heavily on securing funds from outside the Borough and these funds are not guaranteed. Proposed improvements are due to place over the next three to five years. 
2. Short Term Vision - Through much consultation over the past 18 months and fund raising, we have been successful in securing £160,000 in replacing the existing children's play area with modern junior and toddler play equipment. The area will be made up of interesting / creative play items such as:
   
   a. Activity net
   
   b. Yo-yo swing
   
   c. Climbing frames
   
   d. Springy's
   
   e. Swings
   
   f. Roundabouts
   
   g. Rotating Balls
   
   h. Diggers
   
   i. See saws
   
   j. Tunnels

The work commenced week beginning 17 March and will be ready for use 8 - 10 weeks later.