Orrian Close play area refurbishment project

Work to improve and upgrade the play area at Orrian Close, Stratford-upon-Avon begins on Monday 23 September.

The play area and green space at Orrian Close will see a complete upgrade and refurbishment as part of a wider scheme to improve the parks in Stratford-upon-Avon thanks to Section 106 monies obtained through the planning system.

Cllr Lynda Organ, Technical Servicers Portfolio says: “These are exciting plans to improve play areas in the town.  The District Council owns and maintains a number of play spaces predominantly within Stratford-upon-Avon town and has received funding to improve opportunities for play areas and physical activity. 

“Research commissioned by the District Council found that although there is a reasonable distribution of sites for toddlers and younger children there is some duplication and more importantly, a lack of sites for older children.  The study also identified that a number of the sites had dated equipment which lacked 'play value' and had reached the end of its useful life.

“This new equipment is designed for older children so that all age groups can have outdoor fun."

Orrian Close refurbishment project timescale:

Phase 1 - (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 – (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).