LOCALS will be given the chance to vote on their preferred designs for two new play areas in Reading.
Following a £200k investment plan to revamp the parks within Blagrave Recreation Ground, Tilehurst, Reading Borough Council (RBC) has invited a number of manufacturers to submit proposed design ideas, which have been shortlisted and used to consult with neighbours.
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The five designs can be viewed online, and people can vote for their favourite here.
Existing playground at Blagrave
The new play areas will include a mix of play equipment which is accessible to all abilities.
A public consultation will be starting today (Wednesday, January 13) and will last until February 3.
One of the submitted proposals
Cllr Karen Rowland, Reading’s Lead Member for Culture, Heritage and 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’m delighted that we are able to put such a significant sum into Blagrave Recreation Ground. Understanding what our children want in terms of play spaces just makes common sense, and I’m really pleased we’ve been able to ensure this by engaging the local community in viewing, discussing and voting for their favourite designs, as well as consulting with Reading’s Access and Disabilities Working Group.
“I’d encourage local residents to check out our shortlisted designs online at www.reading.gov.uk/Blagrave.
“The really good news is that by late spring, children in Tilehurst can look forward to exploring and enjoying two new play areas at Blagrave Recreation Ground.”
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Once the consultation is completed, the results will form part of the final selection of the winning design, which will also include consultation with the Reading Access and Disabilities Working Group and assessments on value for money and technical competency.
The winning design scheme will be announced in February 2021. It is expected that the work will start on-site during March 2021 with an aim to be completed by May.
The public consultation will take place from January 13th to February 3rd 2021.
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