£270,000 Boost For Ryde And Ventnor Playgrounds

Three Isle of Wight playgrounds are set for major improvements after the council secured £270,000 in Government funding.

The money will be used at Appley Park and Monkton Mead in Ryde, and North Street Playground in Ventnor.

The funding includes £240,000 for improvements and £30,000 in revenue funding over the next two years.

The council says the sites were chosen because of local need, the condition of existing play equipment and opportunities to improve access to high-quality facilities.

The improvements will focus on creating modern, inclusive and accessible spaces for children of different ages and abilities, while encouraging exercise, social interaction and outdoor play.

Councillor Karen Lucioni, chair of the council's environment and community protection committee, said the investment was “fantastic news” for Island children, young people and families.

She said the playgrounds were “important community assets” and the funding would help create spaces where children can play, be active and spend time outdoors.

Natasha Dix, the council's service director, said quality outdoor play areas were vital for children's health, wellbeing and development.

She added that the funding provides an opportunity to invest in facilities that will benefit communities “for many years to come”.

The council will now develop detailed designs, with local residents, schools, families and young people invited to help shape the plans through consultation and engagement.

More information about the proposed improvements and how to have your say is expected to be released in the coming months.