Essex village new playground opened thanks to £22k grant

More than 150 people turned out to see the opening of the all-weather playground in Great Braxted’s playing field on Saturday, April 30.

The play area previously featured ageing pieces of equipment, most suitable only for older children.

It now includes outdoor picnic areas and meeting space together with inclusive, accessible play equipment for children of all ages and abilities.

Read more >>> In pictures: New playground in village officially opened after four years

This includes the usual play equipment as well as a new accessible roundabout and sensory hub.

Richard Collins, lead fundraiser for the project, said: "The new playground is a fantastic resource which will benefit the area and local community by providing safe outdoor play for children.

Youngsters push Peppa Pig in one of the new swings

"Our goal from the outset was to create a secure amenity that would benefit the village and provide access for children with learning and skills needs."

The nearest park offering play inclusion and provision for abilities was previously six miles away on the far side of Maldon town centre.

Read more >>> New £30k playground for village is 'major achievement' for community

The project was made possible thanks to a grant of £22,000 from Enovert Community Trust (ECT) through the Landfill Communities Fund.

Angela Haymonds, trust manager of Enovert Community Trust, said: “The Trustees are delighted to have supported this important community project. 

“This playground will provide both social and health benefits for the many families in the community that will use it for years to come.”