New playground is a big hit

A NEW adventure playground for youngsters aged 8-15 has been officially opened at Walton Hall and Gardens by the town’s Mayor Cllr Mike Biggin.
Within minutes of the ribbon being cut, the state of the art play area was packed full of families.
Playground equipment includes a cableway, basket swing, orbit roundabout and multi-play unit and it’s all housed on a soft pour cushioned rubber surface.
The brilliant new addition to the park came about after ongoing visitor surveys highlighted requests by children, young people and families for more play equipment suitable for an older age group.
In a joint venture, the council and Waste Recycling Environmental Limited (WREN), who both provided the £76,000 funding, together with the Friends of Walton Hall and other key partners, stepped into action and designed and delivered the playground.
Cllr Kate Hannon said: “People have put a lot of time, hard work and dedication into making this possible and it all paid off when we saw all the families having fun on Sunday. I must thank everyone who has been involved in this fantastic project.”
Richard Smith, grant manager for WREN Cheshire, Cumbria, Halton & Warrington, WREN, added: “The provision of quality play and recreational facilities make a real difference and I am pleased that the new adventure playground is completed at Walton Hall. The project is an excellent example of a dedicated friends group working with the council and park staff to create a facility that can benefit all users. I hope that the area will be used and enjoyed for many years to come.”
The playground is a welcome addition to existing favourites on the estate such as the children’s zoo, gardens and games areas.