Worthing beach play area revealed

More than 550 schoolchildren voted for their favourite playground design for the BIG Lottery play facility, just east of Southern Water's Waterwise garden on West Parade.

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Worthing Council parks manager Clive Bramble worked closely with pupils from Elm Grove, West Park and Durrington Middle schools, asking them to vote on a range of designs for the 140,000 scheme.

It is being funded by the BIG lottery for 100,000, with the remaining money coming from developers' Section 106 contributions.

Seaside themes

Mr Bramble said the children also commented on some preferred changes which have been included in the final scheme, which will feature seaside themes '“ a shipwreck, see-saw and sand pit area '“ along with rope and pendulum swings.

Teacher Eileen Pearson, from Durrington Middle School, said: "The children were delighted to be asked for their help in choosing the new play area.

"As each design was put on display, they became more excited and kept firing questions about the type of equipment, what it was made of and when would it be opened.

"They are so looking forward to seeing their chosen design built, as well as being able to play in."

Lottery fund

Worthing Council leader Paul Yallop said: "When we speak with residents, the council is quite often criticised for failing to provide facilities for children and young people.

"So we are very grateful to the BIG Lottery for giving us this money to introduce play facilities for children in this area of town.

"The play equipment has been designed to blend in with the Waterwise garden, which will enhance the beach area and not be intrusive in any way."

Installation of the equipment by Jupiter Play Companies is planned to begin in mid-September and be completed in mid-October, with an official opening.

BIG Lottery funding aims for children's play needs to be addressed, and that local children are involved in the process, including the siting and equipment and that the site is easy accessible.

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