At a well-attended meeting last Tuesday, Rushden Town Council unanimously approved a motion to invest £75,000 in a complete refurbishment of the children’s play area at Manor Park. The decision follows a community consultation period where local families provided valuable feedback on the aging equipment and what they hoped to see in the future.
The project will address long-standing concerns about the park’s worn-out facilities. The plan includes the installation of modern, accessible play equipment, such as an inclusive roundabout for wheelchair users, a multi-person swing, and a new climbing frame with sensory panels. The upgrade will also feature new safety surfacing and improved seating for parents and guardians.
Councillor Mark Peterson, who championed the project, spoke passionately at the meeting. “This is a fantastic and necessary investment in our town’s future,” he said. “Our parks are vital spaces for children and families, and for too long, the facilities at Manor Park have not been up to the standard our residents deserve. This upgrade will ensure it remains a safe, inclusive, and exciting place for years to come.”
Local parent, Emily Wright, who attended the consultation meetings, was delighted with the news. “It’s wonderful to feel that the council has really listened,” she said. “We asked for more equipment for younger children and better accessibility, and it’s all in the plan. My kids can’t wait.”
The project is scheduled to go to tender next month, with work expected to begin in the autumn and be completed by early next spring.