Polly has welcomed the announcement that the government is to provide up to £270,000 extra funding for three new playgrounds in Thanet.
The money is part of an £18m allocation to 66 councils across the country and must be used to improve or create playgrounds in areas that are most in need. It will be provided over the next two financial years, a period which begins next month.
The news comes hot on the heels of confirmation that Thanet Council has appointed specialist contractors Betongpark Limited to build the new £1.1m skatepark in Ethelbert Crescent, Cliftonville, using funding from the Margate Town Deal. Work will start later this year.
Polly said:
“Our local Labour council in Thanet is already doing fantastic work revitalising our parks and public spaces, so this funding from the government for three new playgrounds in our area is a huge boost to that effort.
“Parents in Thanet often tell me how important playgrounds are as a free place for their children to let off steam, but that many local parks have really suffered under Conservative cuts and neglect. I’m delighted to see this investment coming to Thanet, and I can’t wait to see these new playgrounds buzzing with life when they are finished.”
District council Labour leader Cllr Rick Everitt said:
“This is great news for children and parents in Thanet. We are already investing in a programme of improvements for our children’s playgrounds and I was delighted to attend the formal opening of one in Newington recently. Playgrounds are a great free resource for parents and if well designed they can play a big role in helping young children to develop their skills and strength.
“It is areas with the most deprivation that suffered most from public spending cuts under the Tories. This money will allow us to invest further in those communities. We will work closely with local people to ensure that we create the right facilities in the right places.”
Beacon Road ward Labour councillor Joanne Bright, who is also standing for election to Kent County Council in the April 9th Cliftonville byelection, said:
“Access to play is essential to children’s health and well-being. I am proud that Labour at Thanet District Council has prioritised improvements to our local parks and open spaces.
“St Peter’s Rec in my ward has benefitted from new goalposts, new benches, an outdoor gym and new lighting. I am thrilled to hear that Thanet will now be receiving £270k funding to improve even more of our parks. That’s the difference Labour makes to communities.”
Secretary of State Steve Reed said:
“This government will be relentless in giving communities the tools, the funding and the power they need to rebuild. From new playgrounds to better high streets, people across the country will see and feel the difference this investment makes, restoring pride in local areas.”