3 - Play for children receives huge boost

 

The Dudley Play Strategy has been selected by the government Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) to be one of 15 national pathfinders. The scheme, to take place over the next three years, will help improve the play opportunities for all children across the borough.

 

John Freeman, director of children's services at Dudley Council, said:

 

"We are thrilled to have been selected for the national play pathfinder programme. There was huge competition for this programme and we are delighted that our bid has been successful.”

 

The Dudley play pathfinder will include the transformation of the existing Wren's Nest Community Adventure Playground into a state-of-the-art indoor and outdoor play park for children in the area.  The centre will be completely refurbished with new play equipment, wheeled sports and multi-use games area.  Local children and members of the community will be involved in designing the new facilities and deciding what they want to see included.

 

 

"Children and young people across the borough have told us the opportunity to play games and enjoy themselves safely in public parks is really important to them.  We need our children to feel safe in their local communities so they can benefit from being outdoors and being physically active."

 

The new government funding will allow the council to replace many of the old and worn out play areas to ensure all borough children have access to a good play area or play park.  The Dudley programme will form part of the government's 10-year Children's Plan which has made available £225 million to improve children’s play across the country.

 

The transformation of the Wren's Nest Community Adventure Playground will form part of the investment.  Other areas for investment will be determined following community involvement.

 

For more details visit the Dudley Play Strategy website at www.justenjoy.tv