At Monday’s meeting of the full Town Council it was agreed that the final decision regarding design and layout of the upgraded play area in Manton’s Jubilee Field will be made next month’s meeting on Monday 20 January.
Councillors and residents were full of praise for the efforts of the Manton Community Outdoors group who have driven this project forward – raising nearly the full target already (£67,500 raised of the £70,000 budget) – aiming not just to update and replace the current play area but extend the age range of children using by enhancing the equipment as well as replacing what is currently there.
Mayor Mervyn Hall identified concerns of some residents, particularly over the introduction of a Zip Wire “a feeling that it dominates the field….. and cuts the field in two” whilst recognising the exceptional efforts and results that the Manton Community Outdoors team had achieved in making this long-awaited upgraded play area become a reality. The full specification for the play area equipment was set out in a tender published on the Town Council website in September.
As part of the research and consultation process conducted by the Manton Community Outdoors team, potential users of the play area – the children themselves – were canvassed as to what equipment they would like to see there and the Zip Wire emerged as clear favourite.
A site visit will take place prior to the next Council meeting where Councillors, members of Manton Community Outdoors and the Residents Association can discuss and decide the detailed layout of the play area.
“A great problem to have” commented one Councillor after the meeting, adding that “projects normally get cut back because the target funds never get raised”. “The Manton Community Outdoors team have achieved beyond all expectations.”