Isle of Wight families benefit from park’s £39k makeover

A play space at Hookes Way in Newport has had a new lease of life after it was redesigned and redeveloped for local residents.

The park on Hookes Way saw its play area improved thanks to £39k of funding from Sovereign Housing Association, Newport & Carisbrooke Community Council and Isle of Wight Council.

The community came together to decide what play equipment they would like. The park now benefits from a brand-new swing, basket swing, a climbing frame, and seesaw.

The project was driven by a local resident, Geri Pardey. She said: “It was a shame when the previous equipment got removed and I was worried it wouldn't get replaced. I decided to contact local people and Sovereign to make sure this space and the children that used the park wouldn't get forgotten.”

Andrew Garratt, Councillor for Parkhurst & Hunnyhill said: “I’m delighted that there will once again be play equipment for local children. This project has been a great example of how councils, organisations like Sovereign Housing Association, and local communities can work together. The input of local children in helping to choose the equipment was a vital part of this, and I hope those who were involved will get extra enjoyment because they can say they helped bring this about.”

The new play provision was opened earlier this year. Approximately 70 residents attended the unveiling event which included face painting, garden games, free ice cream, goodie bags and of course the new play equipment.

Toby Eaglen the Community Investment Lead for Sovereign said: “It was heart-warming to see all the children enjoying themselves and the community coming together to celebrate.”

The children were overjoyed with their new park, commenting how much they loved the new equipment.