Park undergoes transformation in time for the summer holidays

A run-down park which fell into disrepair has been transformed into a new play area just in time for the summer holidays.
The children's play area has had a revamp just in time for the school holidays. (AB281a0716)The children's play area has had a revamp just in time for the school holidays. (AB281a0716)
The children's play area has had a revamp just in time for the school holidays. (AB281a0716)

A new park for children of primary school age and younger is open at Ash Grove in Minsthorpe after a four-week building project.

The facilities include a 1.5-metre high slide, two sets of swings and designated toddler and junior areas with different types of play equipment.

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Ideas for the park were developed in consultation with nearby schools, including Ash Grove Primary and Infant School.

Work was carried out by Upton-based Sutcliffe Play, which specialises in designing creative play environments.

Funding for the park was provided by Wakefield Council after councillors including Martyn Ward appealed for help.

Coun Ward said the park was in urgent need of improvements after falling victim to vandalism.

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He said: “The park had become really tired. Much of the equipment was broken beyond repair.”

Coun Ward appealed for people to be vigilant of vandalism at the new park to make sure it did not fall into disrepair again.

Old CCTV cameras from nearby Minsthorpe Pool would be brought back into use to help keep the park safe, Coun Ward said.

Funding was also sought to built a new skate park at Ash Grove to be used by older children.

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Wakefield Council has released plans for the new Minsthorpe Pool and gym as part of a public consultation process.

The first drawings for the £5m leisure centre include a six-lane swimming pool and gym.

There will be consultations events at Hemsworth Library, South Elmsall Market and Library and former Ash Grove site during August.