Acomb Green playground receives Lottery grant (From York Press)

Acomb Green playground receives Lottery grant

7:52am Wednesday 1st February 2012 in News By Jennifer Bell, jennifer.bell@thepress.co.uk

A PLAYGROUND plagued with litter and antisocial behaviour problems is set to get a £50,000 makeover thanks to a major campaign by the community.

The Friends of Acomb Green, in York, have secured the grant from the Big Lottery’s Community Spaces programme to transform Acomb Green’s playground.

Members of the public are being asked for their views on the designs for the playground which is due to be completed by summer.

The funds will also go towards installing benches on the rest of the Green later this month.

Acomb Green is a well-used space by children, families, sports people, and dog walkers. However, the playground has become shabby and has problems with litter and antisocial behaviour.

The Friends decided to apply for a Community Spaces grant after discovering the huge cost of play equipment.

Community Spaces is a £57.5 million open grants programme managed by Groundwork UK as an award partner to the Big Lottery Fund’s Changing Spaces initiative.

Keith Myers from the Friends said: “The Green desperately needs some seats and the playground is crying out for a makeover. I couldn’t believe it could cost up to £12,000 for a roundabout.”

After a year of research, surveys, and consultation with the local community, the Friends submitted their winning bid.

Judith Johnston from the Friends said: “We’re putting in equipment for all age groups; babies, school kids and older kids.”

The Friends worked closely with the Parks and Opens Spaces team at the City of York Council to secure the grant.

Mr Myers said: “The council has been very supportive, and getting the grant has been a catalyst for them to do up other parts of the Green such as the pathways, so we are extremely happy.”

Simon Haddock of the council’s Play Team said: “City of York Council is very pleased with the announcement that the Friends of Acomb Green have secured funding to make improvements to Acomb Green play area.

“It is a well-used and attractive Green and this funding can only improve its appeal.”

The Friends and Council are conducting a tendering process and expect to choose a playground design with help from the local community by February 20. Members of the public are invited to view the designs and provide feedback at the Acomb Explore Library from February 7 to 19.

They can also email friendsofacombgreen@yahoo.co.uk Mrs Johnston said: “We’d love to get everyone’s feedback as this will be their playground.”