Play equipment upgrades completed at Hailsham play area

With the success of the upgraded play area in Western Road last year, the Town Council has taken this opportunity to bring the play area located on in Stroma Gardens - in addition to those located in Battle Road (currently being carried out) and at the Maurice Thornton Playing Field (recently completed) up to optimum standard, offering excellent play value for all users.

The first phase of the project, a significant upgrade to the Maurice Thornton Playing Field play area, has just finished and involved the installation of a 30-metre aerial zipwire, replacement of the broken inclusive roundabout and complete overlaying of the wet-pour in this area.

The second phase, only just completed, includes the installation of new pieces of toddler equipment, as well as the removal of the large slide and replacement with a toddler multi-play unit. A 4-person springy seesaw and inclusive toddler springy have also be installed on the site.

Work is still under way on the play area situated in Battle Road (due to be completed soon) and will see the installation of new swings, in addition to the replacement of the Whirly Bird roundabout with an inclusive one - and complete overlaying of the wet-pour surface.

The project is being funded by using the Council's Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money and will future proof the play areas for the next 10-15 years. The Council agreed a budget of over £40K for the overlaying of the wet pour surface at the sites and further agreed to invest between £100K to £120K for upgrades and improvements to play areas, including the replacement of some play equipment due to reaching the end of its serviceable life or as a result of corrosion over the years.

"The revamp of some on the maintained play areas is part of the Town Council's continued commitment to improve local parks and open spaces," said Works Manager Richard Gillett. "Children’s play areas play a vital role in outdoor recreation, providing children with an area to relax, meet friends and play."

"The Town Council’s play areas strike a balance between providing stimulating play and meeting current safety requirements, which is why we pride ourselves in maintaining our facilities to the highest standards and undertaking regular inspections, repairs and replacements where necessary, as well as upgrades such as those recently completed or near to completion."

"The Stroma Gardens, Battle Road and Maurice Thornton play facilities are well used, and the improvement works to these sites will see the installation of new and more inclusive equipment, plus it will also help the Town Council tackle the challenge of a growing number of families with children in the Hailsham area."

In addition to the Stroma Gardens, Battle Road and Maurice Thornton play areas, the Town Council currently manages play areas in Western Road and Quinnell Drive, plus two outdoor gym sites and a children's skate park.