In a recent development, the local council took significant steps to enhance the communal spaces within the village, particularly focusing on the village green. They teamed up with eibe Play, a company specialized in playground and recreational solutions, to implement a comprehensive two-phase upgrade. The council's commitment to improving local facilities reflects its dedication to enhancing community life and promoting active lifestyles among its residents, with particular attention to accessibility and inclusivity, as evidenced by the new tarmac pathway installed around the field, ensuring access for prams and wheelchairs.
The first phase of the project, initiated in late 2023, aimed at enriching the green with sports and fitness-oriented installations. This included various new play items such as the Storks Nest Agility Net, a Sports Shelter, an Agility Trail, and a Chessboard Table. These installations were selected based on detailed consultations with eibe Play to cater to the developmental needs of the village’s schoolchildren, emphasizing both play and physical fitness.
eibe Play also provided expertise on the most suitable surfacing for each installation. For the Agility Trail, grass grow-through matting was chosen to harmonize with the natural environment, while a more robust green wet-pour surface was deemed appropriate for the dynamic activities involving the Agility Net. Collaborating with a locally based installer ensured that the installation process was completed successfully within two weeks, despite adverse weather conditions.
The council's initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the children's enjoyment of the new facilities. This project not only stands as a testament to effective community-focused urban planning but also sets a precedent for similar rural villages aiming to enhance communal spaces while preserving their historical heritage and natural charm.