Coopers Meadow play area will be improved and upgraded, turned into a contemporary place for children to play in safety that is in the heart of the Town.
The Town Council made this decision recently but wanted to get the opinion of those who will be using it to show them plans, discuss designs but above all get feedback which can be included before any work is started.
Where better to hold the consultation than at Marlborough St Mary’s school, barely a stones’ throw from Coopers Meadow where not just the parents, grandparents and carers could see and comment on what’s planned, but the users themselves – the children could get a sneak preview of what’s in store.
Lots of comments came from those who attended, particularly from the ‘younger consultees’ all of which will be taken into consideration when the final and detailed design is put in place.
As well as the Mayor, Councillor Lisa Farrell and Councillor Mark Cooper, chairman of the Amenities & Open Spaces committee at the Town Council under whose brief this development falls, the consultation was attended by Town Clerk, Shelley Parker and Project Manager Michael Carter of Sports & Play Consulting who was there to answer specific questions from members of the public, children, and even the media!
Cllr Mark Cooper, Chair of the Amenities & Opens Spaces Committee said: “We’re delighted with the positive feedback from young people and we’ll take on board their suggestions before it’s all finalised. It’s a real step forward to have such an improved family-focused play area right in the centre of the town. With most of the funding coming from developers’ contributions, it represents a huge saving to residents too. I remember playing there as a child myself and enjoyed being in such a special environment. All being well, it’ll be ready towards the end of October and we’re planning a celebratory opening event.”
The development has been awarded to playground specialist Creative Play (UK) Ltd after a tender process and work will be due to start once the Summer has finished in October.
Rather than costing Marlborough residents directly, the development is being funded through income generated through Section 106 Agreements income and the Community Infrastructure Levy, where organisations developing in an area are required to provide funding for Community and social infrastructure projects.