New upgraded Maldon playpark to be named after former mayor

Former mayor - Flo Shaughnessy <i>(Image: Maldon Town Council)</i>
Former mayor - Flo Shaughnessy (Image: Maldon Town Council)
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A FORMER mayor of Maldon who died earlier this year is having a playpark named after her as revamp works are set to start next week.

Flo Shaughnessy served as Maldon Mayor from 2019 to 2020, and died in February after a short battle with an illness.

She had also served as a councillor on Maldon District Council for the Maldon West Ward from 2015. 

Maldon Mayor Andrew Lay paid tribute at the time, saying she had "tirelessly" represented her residents.

Now, Maldon District Council has unveiled plans to upgrade the play area at West Maldon Community Centre, in Sunbury Way, and it will be named Flo’s Place Play Area.

Vision - how Flo's Place Play Area could look(Image: Maldon District Council)

The existing play area will be removed and replaced with a brand-new facility featuring state-of-the-art equipment, modern safety surfaces, and accessibility features designed to cater for a wider range of users.

A spokesperson for Maldon District Council, said: “Flo was a dedicated local councillor for the West Maldon area and a passionate advocate for community wellbeing.

“The works will take place between 29 September and 24 October, and are being delivered in partnership with Kompan UK Ltd, who have previously completed successful play area projects in Promenade Park and Riverside Park.”

A celebration of Ms Shaughnessy's life was held at the Town Hall on March 13.

The family wanted the event to take place at the Town Hall as she loved being there, being a town councillor, and being mayor.

Speaking about the playpark upgrade project, Councillor Richard Siddall, leader of Maldon District Council, said: “We’re excited to be delivering this fantastic new play area for West Maldon.

“Naming it Flo’s Place is a fitting tribute to Councillor Flo Shaughnessy, who worked tirelessly for her community and always put people first.

“This is a project that was close to her heart, and she was passionate about its delivery, the play area is something we know she would have had immense pride in its contribution to the community.

“It’s going to be a safe, fun and inclusive space for children and families to enjoy for years to come.”

The council will share further updates as the works progress.

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