Toddler play area set for improvements
Rawtenstall children are set to benefit from a newly refurbished play area, after funding was given the green light. The £143,000 investment, which received the green light at Rossendale Borough Council's Cabinet meeting, marks the next major step in Whittaker Park Masterplan.
The approval means the Council can now move ahead with opening a tender for the works, inviting play companies to submit designs based on the available budget.
The project will focus on upgrading the existing 2-8-year-olds play space by replacing the worn equipment and surfacing, bringing it up to the same standard as the popular new junior play area installed last year.
Refurbishing the toddler area has been identified as a priority within the Whittaker Park Masterplan, ensuring both play spaces complement each other and offer high‑quality facilities for families visiting the park.
The tender will be published in March, and companies interested in the work will be able to find full details on the Council’s website. The Council aims to appoint a contractor who can complete the refurbishment by the start of the school summer holidays.
The refreshed toddler play area was identified as a priority by local families and the upgrade will reduce the increasing maintenance costs associated with the ageing equipment.
Cllr Adrian Lythgoe, Lead Member for Environment, said: “Cabinet’s approval marks another important milestone for Whitaker Park. Families have really welcomed the new junior play zone, and we’re pleased to move forward with plans to upgrade the toddler area next. This will help ensure the whole play space is safe, attractive and enjoyable for younger children, and continues to meet the needs of the community for years to come.”
ENDS