SOMETHING FOR CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE OF ALL AGES

11.28.00am GMT Mon 22nd Dec 2008

Cllr Christine Stanfield (Lib Dem, Lindley Ward)

£60,000 has transformed Fernlea Recreation Ground in to a place where children of all ages can now play, keep fit and make friends.

£50,000 from the Government's "Play Builder" scheme has helped to extend existing facilities for 8-13 year olds while a further £10,000 secured by Cllr Christine Stanfield (Lib Dem, Lindley Ward) through negotiations with Bovis Homes has paid for new toddler play equipment to be installed.

Previously existing facilities of the site included a mini football pitch, a pod for teenagers, a ball wall with basketball facilities and a picnic area which were all provided by Huddersfield North Area Committee. The new additions to the site mean that the Fernlea Rec now has universal appeal and that children and young people of any age will now be find something there that is specifically aimed at their age group.

The toddler play area development includes:

• Swings

• Multi play unit with slide

• Springy roundabout

• Springy animal

• New seating and bins

• New rubber crumb safety surface

For the older the children and young people:

• a cantilever pendulum swing (image provided)

• a free ride - which is like a suspended skateboard (image provided)

• a perching post (tubular seating) (image provided)

Cllr Christine Stanfield (Lib Dem, Lindley Ward) said:

"I am delighted with this addition for the children and young people of Lindley and Birchencliffe. Play is so important for all children and young people, from toddlers right through to the older teens. It keeps them fit, teaches them about co-operation and team work as well as helping them form friendships and learn about other people. There should be universal provision like this all across Kirklees, its going to be invaluable. I am still sorry that this playground is not on its original site on Blackthorn Drive, but would like to thank Bovis Homes for their help in donating money for this alternative play area which gives the site a really good range of activities for all ages.