PR 27 Aug 2009 Memorial Rec.Ground Chapel Lane needs TLC

Page Created 27th August 2009

The Memorial Recreation Ground in Chapel Lane is in urgent need of TLC

We live in an era when child obesity seriously concerns many parents, and this is in part tackled by ensuring that adequate exercise is taken. A good exercise regime begins from the earliest ages and our public parks play a large role in ensuring that our children develop into healthy adults. Castle Point is blessed with much open space; still over fifty per cent of the borough is green belt and there are plenty of parks. However, keeping youngsters happy takes a bit more than just providing a field. The Memorial Recreation Ground in Chapel Lane, Hadleigh is a good example of a good facility that has been under-supported by the local authority.

In October 2006 the two playgrounds within this open space were described as "very poor" and "poor" in a report by Castle Point Borough Council, with an estimate of £83000 for to replace or improve equipment. A recommendation of removal was made for Playground 2, not that there is much to remove – this currently has just two child's swings in it.

Julian Ware-Lane, Labour candidate for Castle Point, visited this facility after representations were made to him by local residents.

"It really is in a shocking state. The equipment, such as there is, is in a poor state of repair. There is much litter, and the grass looks like it has not seen a lawn-mower for a few weeks. The perimeter fences have not been repainted for some time, possibly many years."

"Being outdoors, especially at this time of year, is where most youngsters want to be. There is little here to keep them entertained."

"We are not talking huge sums of money to overhaul the equipment and provide elementary maintenance. I cannot understand why the local authority has been so slow in doing anything here. Do they not care?"

"I hope that the council will act soon. We have the Olympics coming to Chapel Lane in three years time, and yet nowhere for the kids to let off steam. I want both playgrounds saved, not removed, and good equipment purchased."

"Neglected is a tag that is increasingly becoming associated with Hadleigh, except for unwanted and inappropriate development. I wish for a better future, and that is what I am campaigning for."