Agenda item

To receive and consider the report of the Project Officer.

The Committee received and considered the report of the Project Officer along with a verbal update explaining how the play review tied into the Council overall strategy. Councillors agreed that age and diversity along with the provision of seating and shade for parents should be prioritised by Officers when considering future improvements

The Committee were pleased to see the additions to the inclusive play range and particularly the play panels and welcomed the suggestion for Ralegh Crescent, to replace once of the current inclusive swing with a traditional swing. This would resolve the need to install a path and would allow for  funds to be utilised instead provide an additional inclusive play item in an area with existing suitable access.

Officers explained further how consideration would be given to improve the access to inclusive equipment in all the Council’s parks to ensure that their use is maximised, this would be carried out in conjunction with users and their families. Following a proposal from Cllr G Doughty, seconded by Cllr A Bailey it was agreed unanimously to delegate to Officers the installation of this equipment.

A paper with three options of replacement swing equipment for Burwell and The Leys play parks was tabled, members discussed each of the options. It was proposed by Cllr J Treloar, seconded by Cllr R Smith that Option One be selected as it provided a piece that could be used by up to four users at a time and could be used by children five and older.

The Committee welcomed the suggestion to install non-verbal communication boards in the play parks at Woodgreen, Oxlease and Quarry Road. These would be provided by Oxfordshire County Council Councillor priority funding and members were appreciative that Officers were carrying out this work alongside the ICE Centre.

Recommended:

1.      That, the report and verbal update be noted and,

2.      That, officers be authorised to procure and implement access/surfacing or a new inclusive swing at Ralegh Crescent Play Area as a high priority, within a maximum budget of £8,000, to be funded as a supplementary estimate from the General Reserve, the most expedient and cost-effective solution being sought, subject to RFO confirmation. That, Option One (Agito Cyclone) be selected for the replacement swing at both Burwell Recreation Ground and The Leys.

3. That, prior to placing orders for the inclusive equipment listed in the report, the Project Officer engages with the residents who previously raised accessibility concerns and were promised involvement, to ensure suitability and siting within the available budget.
4. That, before procurement and installation of inclusive items, officers undertake proportionate access checks (edging, thresholds, approach surfacing and gate convenience) and minor enabling works to be authorised under existing delegation, with any material cost brought back to Committee.