Thaxted play area gets Playbuilder funding reinstated

Thaxted play area gets Playbuilder funding reinstated - At the last minute the promised, but frozen, 48k of Playbuilder funding was released, enabling the much anticipated vision of a new play area for Thaxted to become a reality!

The first of 17 similar schemes in Essex to get the suspended funding reinstated, Thaxted now proudly boasts a fantastic new space for children of all ages and their families to enjoy together.

The original site, which previously housed rather old and tired play items, has been completely rejuvenated with an adventure playground in response to much public consultation.  Thaxted Primary School, scout and guide groups and the youth club were all invited to take part in the consultation which resulted in some fantastic feedback.  One of the major requests was for a zipwire and extra efforts by two young boys from the village who raised a staggering £735 with their sponsored bike ride, ensured that the Wicksteed Cableway was installed.

With public donations from local businesses, individuals and other organisations - including Essex County Council Community Initiative, and a significant amount from Viridor Credits - the £90k play area now provides a huge array of challenging and exciting play products for the whole community to enjoy.

Julie Abel, Clerk to Thaxted Parish Council, couldn't praise Wicksteed Playscapes highly enough and was very impressed with the attention to detail that was shown throughout the project.  A special visit to Wicksteed's manufacturing plant also took place.  Now that the play area has been completed, Julie said: "It is so fantastic that the project ultimately went very smoothly and the close-knit community of Thaxted now has a play area that has fulfilled the childrens' dreams."