Rossendale Borough Council is moving ahead with the next stage of improvements to the top play area at Edgeside Park.
Rossendale Borough Council is moving ahead with the next stage of improvements to the top play area at Edgeside Park, following strong community support for the wider Edgeside Park Masterplan and investment through Pride in Place.
The Council is leading the project management for this phase of the scheme, including securing match funding, running the tender process and overseeing delivery to ensure the plans shaped by residents are turned into real improvements on the ground.
Councillor Nick Harris, Lead Member for Economic Development said: “Our parks are at the heart of our communities, and Edgeside Park is no exception. I’m pleased that we are able to play a part, with wider partners and the Pride in Place Board, to create a high-quality play area that local families can enjoy for years to come.”
The masterplan has been developed through extensive engagement with local residents, families, community groups and park users, helping to ensure future investment reflects the priorities and aspirations of the community. Feedback gathered through consultation has helped shape proposals aimed at enhancing the park's facilities, accessibility and overall visitor experience.
A spokesperson for Friends of Edgeside Park said: "We are delighted to see progress being made on the plans for the top play area. The park is a much-loved community asset and it has been encouraging to see local people actively involved in shaping its future. The investment secured will help ensure the park continues to provide opportunities for play, recreation and community activities for years to come."
Funding for the project is being supported through Pride in Place, with Rossendale Borough Council also securing additional investment through the Derbyshire Environmental Fund via the Landfill Communities Fund.
Léonie Ford Miah, member of the Staghills and Edgeside Subgroup, said: "This project is a great example of what can be achieved when residents, community organisations and partners work together. The feedback we've received has been invaluable in helping to shape the proposals, and the support provided through Pride in Place is helping turn those ideas into visible improvements that will benefit local families for years to come. We're excited to move into the next phase of the project and see the designs begin to take shape."
The next step will see the Council appoint a specialist contractor to develop detailed designs for the new play area. These designs will build directly on the priorities identified through community engagement, ensuring the final scheme is high‑quality, inclusive and sustainable.