Frustrated Harkstead parents launch playground improvement group

By Derek Davis

1st Feb 2022 | Local News

Parents in Harkstead, frustrated by a lack of progress in improving playground equipment in their village, have taken things into their own hands and launched an action group.

With more and more young children now living in the ancient but small settlement the group believe the youngsters deserve better facilities at the Millennium Green.

They are looking to replace some of the ageing equipment, and add a wider range of play equipment to cover a wider age range, but babies, toddlers, pre-teens and something for older children.

Scott Angell, spokesman for the group, said: "We have been here eight years and this park has never changed while parks around us have improved.

"My children want a better play and area and with more and more kids coming in to the village, we need to provide more updated equipment.

"It is early days but we hope we can raise enough so our children can make memories in this village, as children in other villages are making their memories on good play equipment.

"If you look at how the Chelmondiston community got together to improve her playing field, I believe we should be doing that while involving the children so that they can say in years to 'we did that'."

The group, which is still very much in its infancy, has already been promised a grant from the Harkstead-based Boothby Charity.

They will now be exploring other funding activities including from Babergh district and Harkstead parish councils.

Scott added: "We have been given £2,000 by a charity to get us started. At the moment it is about generating interest, making more people aware of what we are doing and do some fund-raising.

"Jane Russell has been very active and got the group together and has worked with the parish and district councils and charities."

Among the fresh ideas so far are a baby swing, sand pit, and a zip wire.

Parents would also like to see the green better maintained, moles and the associated mole-hills dealt with, so youngsters could play football and enjoy running around safely.

A meeting is due to be held this week on a day to be confirmed to formalise the way ahead and secure more volunteers.

Anyone interested in more details should contact: [email protected]

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