Playground set for £100k overhaul and the council wants residents to have their say

Ivydene play area is set to benefit from a £100,000 investment, as Reading Borough Council (RBC) says the existing equipment has reached the end of its life.

The authority is taking the opportunity to overhaul the entire site and a series of designs have been released to gauge what the public would like to see in the future.

Councillor Karen Rowland, lead member for Recreation, said: “It is one of our key priorities that we provide high quality, accessible equipment in as many of our playgrounds as possible so that children of all abilities can play together.

“I am delighted that we are able to put such a significant sum into Ivydene. Understanding what our children want in terms of play spaces just makes common sense.

"I am really pleased we’ve been able to ensure this by engaging local schoolchildren in voting for their favourite design.

"I am eager to always ensure that play equipment is advised by children of all abilities and I am looking to progress the ways in which we engage with those children and families who have special needs situations to be an integral part of our play provision allocation processes.

“I would encourage local residents to check out our shortlisted designs at Rivermead Leisure Centre."

Funding for the upgrade has been secured in the form of a developer contribution, with other green spaces set to receive some attention.

A further £100,000 is to be spent on Canal Way, which will replace Avon Place play area.

Cintra Park, Coley Recreation Ground and Long Barn Lane Recreation Ground will also receive investment.

The winning design for Ivydene play area will be announced and displayed on June 17 and the work is expected to start in September.

Visitors will not be allowed to use the play area while the refurbishment takes place, but it is hoped it will reopen in time for October half-term.

Designs will be on display at Rivermead Leisure Centre until June 10.