FAMILIES in Skelton can now enjoy a newly refurbished Derwent play area following the completion of the council’s improvement project.
Work began in mid-September last year, and the transformation features a range of upgrades to enhance play, safety, and community engagement. The improvements include:
- General enhancements – A new main entrance footpath, resurfacing of the Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA), repainting of existing play equipment, and removal of outdated play surfaces, which have been reseeded.
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New equipment and creative designs– A brand-new accessible roundabout, a newly designed MUGA, and a castle structure, both developed with input from local Scouts and Guides groups, plus two stone-filled benches, and themed posters for the litter bins.
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- Enhanced safety – Installation of child-friendly safety surfacing.
The project was made possible through the involvement of Skelton’s Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, Rainbows, Brownies, and Guides and their imaginative designs, as well as Bellway Homes through their developer contribution which was matched by the council. Additional funding was secured by Skelton Villages Civic Pride from external funders, Tees Million and Beyond Housing.
The works were completed by GB Sport & Leisure, Martin Dobson Steel River Fabrications Ltd, and Terry Dauncey Sign Writing.
The project’s completion was marked by a special event for the community which included entertainment from the Youth Service, recycling activities with the Waste and Recycling Team, and refreshments courtesy of Skelton Co-Op.
Cllr Adam Brook, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: "This project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when the community comes together. The input from local Scouts and Guides groups has helped create a space that is not only fun and engaging but also reflects the creativity of our young people. Play areas are at the heart of our communities, and we’re committed to providing safe, high-quality spaces for children and families to enjoy. It's been my pleasure to support this project, and I would also like to thank the council officers, Cllrs Earl and McCue and everyone involved for all their hard work to pull this together."
Ward Members for Skelton, Cllr Ursula Earl and Cllr John McCue, who had a significant involvement in this project, said: “The refurbishment of the play area not only provides a safe and engaging space for young people, but it also brings the community together. It’s been wonderful to see so many local groups, businesses and volunteers play a role in making this project happen.”
Paula Murdoch, Bellway Sales Manager, said: “It’s really rewarding looking at a development nearing completion and see the community that we’ve helped to build. The new play park at our Castlegate development here in Skelton was always going to play an important part in this and it’s great to see it finished and ready to be the focal point for hours of fun and happy memories."
Pam Batts, Secretary of Skelton Villages Civic Pride added: “We are pleased to support this exciting project which will bring pleasure to many children and families in Skelton.”
Rachael Crooks, Community Partnership & Engagement Manager at Beyond Housing, said: "We are delighted to support Skelton Villages Civic Pride Association through our Beyond Housing Community Fund. The initiative to enhance the play area for families aligns with our objective to create great places to live, and is just one example of how our community fund can make a tangible difference in the lives of local residents."
The newly improved play area is now open for all to enjoy, marking a significant investment in outdoor spaces for local families.