Babergh recreation projects set to receive cash boost
Cabinet members voted to approve bids which will see Mill Lane Play Area and Assington Village Hall improve outdoor facilities for local residents.
Located in Copdock and Washbrook, Mill Lane Play area will receive £93k which will be used to replace the current play equipment, with brand new features.
The current play equipment has been in place for more than 30 years, with some pieces coming towards the end of their lifespan.
This CIL bid will allow the parish council, who are also contributing towards the project financially, to enhance the range of play options and inclusivity provided with a range of play equipment.
The new play area will feature pieces of equipment which are designed to ensure children with disabilities or mobility challenges can make use of the facilities. This includes the swings, carousel and play panels as well as Eco smart grass matting to improve accessibility and ease of use.
The parish council is contributing a further £31k towards the total cost of the project, alongside financial contributions from other local supporters.
Cabinet members also noted one successful bid under delegated approval with just over £11k going to Assington Village Hall for the creation of a brand-new outside gym facility.
With a focus on creating an inclusive and accessible recreation, play and exercise area for the local community and visitors, the new equipment will be free to use making it particularly beneficial for those unable to afford a commercial gym membership but wanting to remain active.
For both projects, CIL funding will cover the majority of the costs, with charitable organisations, local parish councils and alternative district council funding streams, contributing the remaining funds.
CIL payments are legally required from developers when building residentials sites across the district. Monies collected are then redistributed by the council to go towards local community projects to ensure they can keep up with housing growth.
Having accessible outdoor facilities to stay active and connect with your community is really important and I hope that residents are truly able to make the most out of them.”
Bids for CIL funding are regularly reviewed by cabinet, so that the money can be reinvested into local infrastructure to help communities to keep pace with the impacts of housing growth.
Details of all the CIL awards can be found in the Cabinet papers on the agenda and decisions webpage on the Babergh website, or they are summarised below:
Copdock and Washbrook Mill Lane Play Area upgrade project - £93,303.66
The play area will provide an engaging and inclusive environment where children can play and learn, supporting their physical, cognitive, and social development. It will be a space where children, regardless of ability, can enjoy the benefits of outdoor recreation and the site will also offer opportunities for adult social interaction and help to foster a stronger sense of community.
Cllr Marc Rowland, ward member for Copdock and Washbrook, said: “I am pleased that the Copdock and Washbrook Parish Council have applied for CIL Funding to upgrade this play area within Copdock village.
“Not only will this be of great benefit to the youngsters who reside there but also the community as a whole. It will be a great meeting hub for not only the parents with children that will use the facilities, but all the residents within Copdock.
“Having sat in the Parish Council meetings and listened to their plans for this area over the last year, it was also great to hear them talking about future development of the whole site to make it attractive for the community to hold events and special occasions.
“I was more than happy to offer some of my locality funds towards this project and look forward to seeing its completion.”
Delegated decision
Assington Village Hall and Playing Fields Outdoor Gym project - £11,727.00
The proposal comprises the installation of seven pieces of modern gym equipment, one of which is specifically designed to be accessible to disabled users. The facility will be particularly beneficial for those who cannot afford commercial gym memberships, individuals undertaking rehabilitation, and those wishing to maintain their general fitness.
Cllr Lee Parker, ward member for Assington, said: “I’m thrilled to see £11,727 awarded to Assington Village Hall and Playing Fields for this outdoor gym project. It’s a fantastic asset for the local community that promotes health, inclusion, and wellbeing.
“Congratulations to all those who worked so hard to secure this funding.”
