Toddler play area is on the right track

Child from Meanwood Primary School swinging

A new toddler play area that includes a bicycle track to teach children how to cycle on roads has been unveiled today at Ings Lane play area, known locally as ‘The Rec’.

The new park was officially opened by councillor Mohammed Zaman, mayor of Rochdale, and children from Meanwood Primary School were the first to test the equipment. Funded by section 106 agreements, Rochdale Borough Council has invested £68,000 to install eight new innovative features for use by toddlers and improve the existing equipment that is suitable for children aged 8 and over.

Major improvements have also been made to surfacing and drainage of the existing play area.

Built next to the current play area location, the extension includes a sectioned off area for toddlers and relaxed seating area. The equipment has been chosen specifically to encourage imaginative social play and help children to develop sensory and motor skills.

Alongside the cycle track where children can learn how to ride safely, a roundabout with cradle seats, a variety of swings and a mystical world multi-play unit have been installed.

Work will continue to seed grassy areas and complete the fencing over the next couple of weeks.

Councillor Neil Emmott, the council’s cabinet member for environment, said: “The extension of the play area is going to make a real difference to those who use the park, as well as the wider community. Local residents have told us that having places where families can enjoy leisure time is really important to them and this new play area is one of three that we are currently working on.

“It highlights our commitment to investing in our green spaces. The feedback we’ve received has been great so far and there’s been a real buzz about the play area opening.”

Phil Massey, chair of the Spotland and Falinge local area forum, said: “It's wonderful to see the new play area open. I remember playing here on the Rec myself as a child and I'm thrilled that the new play equipment now means that another generation can enjoy the park. Our green spaces are vital to health and wellbeing, and to have such a great place to play is a real boost for children and families in the area.

“A huge thanks to our local ward councillors who have worked hard to ensure that funding was made available for this new play area. This is another fabulous addition for Spotland and Falinge, and delivered what was asked for by the local area forum.”