Survey launched on £60,000 Leyburn Shawl play area improvements

The Shawl play area at Leyburn, which is being renovated.

Leyburn residents are being asked for their views on plans to improve the play area at the Shawl.

The town council is proposing to spend £60,000 on the play area, with a public fundraising appeal being launched for ten per cent of the total.

The aim of the project is to make better use of the space by creating a more varied and inclusive play area.

The plans aim to create an area which can be enjoyed by children of all ages and abilities.

The first phase of the project is proposing to:

  • Remove the majority of existing play equipment and surfacing (the zip wire, roundabout and toddler slide will be kept and repainted)
  • Design a new play area to improve the range of facilities, equipment and making the Shawl Fields more accessible to everyone.
  • Install new equipment
  • Create accessible paths leading to all the play equipment

Plans are also being discussed for future phases to improve the whole Shawl Playing field and the council said it would appreciate comments on these ideas too.

Cllr Mark Alderson, who has been leading the leisure and recreation group, said: “The improvement to the Shawl Fields Play Area is a very important project for the town and surrounding areas.

“During the covid pandemic outdoor spaces have been vital, with the Shawl Fields providing one of the few areas for children to play and regain a sense of normality.

“Following the tough year that we have all endured, a new play area will be a huge, well-needed boost to the families and residents of the local community.

“It is hoped that the work to upgrade the Play Area will be completed in time for it to be enjoyed by everyone over the Summer.”

Cllr Alderson said the authority would welcome the thoughts of all potential users of the play area before plans are presented to the full town council for approval.

Leyburn Town Counc clerk Charlotte Smith added: “The town council want to involve the local community, listen to their needs alongside opinions on exactly what they want from their play area.

“I urge as many families as possible to take part in this consultation, as this is your opportunity to see and comment on the exciting plans for the Shawl.

“The support and positivity we have received so far is incredible — every donation really does count, no matter how small or large.

“So with summer on its way and better times on the horizon, let’s all work together to raise the last 10% funding to get the new play area in place.”

To complete the survey, click here.

To donate to the fundraising appeal, click here.