New outdoor gym equipment for Orrian Close play area

Stratford-on-Avon District Council's contractors have completed phase 2 of the redevelopment of the Orrian Close recreation ground project with the installation of the outdoor gym equipment.

The outdoor gym provided by the Fresh Air Fitness Company is suitable for all ages from teenagers to senior citizens.  It has a wide variety of equipment to help you improve your cardio fitness, your muscle strength and flexibility, whether you're a beginner or a fitness fanatic.

Councilor Lynda Organ, Technical Services Portfolio says: "The new outdoor gym is a good way to enjoy the District's green spaces and get fit at the same time without breaking the bank."

The outdoor gym has 10 pieces of equipment and includes an arm and pedal bike, chest press, double cross country skier, seated leg press and a push up station.

The equipment comes with easy to use instructions and is free to use -  so, not only is it fun to use, but participants can also enjoy spending time in the great outdoors at no cost.

Orrian Close refurbishment project timescale:

Phase 1 - Completed (23^rd September – November 2013) - will see the existing multi play units removed and grassed over. The two 5-aside goals will remain at the top of the open space. A new measured mile footpath (400m loop) and benches installed and some basic landscaping work.

Phase 2 – Completed (November – December 2013) – 8 to 12 pieces of outdoor gym equipment (similar to the equipment at the recreation ground in Stratford) will be installed around the measured loop to encourage local residents to take part in regular physical activity outdoors.

Phase 3 – (October 2013 – January 2014) - local residents and young people will be consulted on the choice, design and layout of new play equipment/area that will be installed during the spring of 2014.  Plans may include a 30m zip wire, a disabled accessible basket swing, a viper swinger, boulders, plus some multi-play units for 5-11 year olds and 11 year plus.

Phase 4 - (March 2014 – May 2014) - installation of the new play equipment.

• Diggley Associates carried out the 2012 independent playground audit on behalf of the District Council.
  
  
• The section 106 monies (developers' contributions) has come from Bishopton, Clopton Road, Regal Road, Limes Avenue, Glebe Road and Mount Crescent developments and is for the provision of public open space and community facilities.
  
  
• Cost of Orrian Close refurbishment around £250,000
  
  
• Other parks to benefit from improvement works include:
  • Cottage Lane in Shottery – basket swing, trim trail and boulders (£9,000).
  • Trevelyan Crescent – a 30m zip wire, basket swing and boulders (£15,000).
  • The StratfordSkatePark – a new precast concrete pyramid, infill half pipe and flat bank (£11,500).