New play areas will be built across Sandwell thanks to £2.5 million of investment announced today as part of the Government’s Children’s Plan.

Adrian Bailey, MP for West Bromwich West, welcomed the news that Sandwell will receive around £2.5 million from the Government to invest in dozens of new play areas, including a brand new supervised adventure play park aimed at 8 to 13 year olds.

Adrian called on a wider discussion between the Council, local representatives and most importantly, the local community for how the money should be spent. 

He said:

“This is great news for Sandwell. After months of hard work we can now look forwarding to developing and rebuilding children’s play areas across our community – benefiting thousands of children and families in our area.

“I want to make sure the local community is fully involved in deciding how and where this funding should be spent. That’s why I want the council and the community to work together with local representatives and listen to the views of local parents on which play areas should be rebuilt or where there is a need for new play facilities

“Play is vital to help children have fun, but it can also keep them happy and healthy and allow them to develop and explore the world. This funding from the Government will help to ensure all children have somewhere safe, stimulating and exciting to play outdoors.”

The funding is part of a £235 million investment being made by the Government over the next three years to transform children’s play areas and make sure public spaces are more child friendly.

Local Councillor, Maria Crompton, Chair of the Young People and Scrutiny Panel, added:

‘I am pleased that the importance of play is now being recognised as a vital ingredient in the development of well rounded young people. I would also like to say that I am immensely proud of everyone who worked so hard to secure this funding.

-ENDS-

For more information on Sandwell’s play strategy please log onto www.sandwell.gov.uk and search play strategy. Consultation information will be posted on this site in January.