Work has started on a £100,000 project to refurbish a popular play area in St Cadocs and Penygarn.
The work, that is being carried out at the existing play area on Mount Road, has been made possible through funding from the Welsh Assembly Government’s Heads of the Valleys programme.
Torfaen’s Countryside team, who are part of the council’s Neighbourhood Services department, have assisted in the facilitation and management of workshops and consultation events leading to the delivery of the project to ensure residents were thoroughly involved in the entire design process.
As a result the play area has been designed by the community partnership, which includes a youth group.
When finished the play area will include new equipment for toddlers to 12 year olds, new paths suitable for access for all and new boundary railings.
Work started earlier this month and it is expected to be completed in time for an official launch in April.
“This is great news for local residents who have wanted a refurbished play area for some time,” said Cllr John Cunningham, Torfaen’s executive member for Neighbourhood Services.
“I would like to congratulate and thank everyone involved for their work on this project.
“Local residents have been kept involved from the start to ensure the new facilities meet the needs of the community – I look forward to its opening later in the year.”
The project is a result of a partnership approach between Communities First, Bron Afon Community Housing, Woodlands Field Community Centre, local residents and youth groups and Torfaen council.
Duncan Forbes, Chief Executive of Bron Afon, said: “This is a popular play area that is going to be even busier once it is refurbished.
“The best thing about this project has been the involvement of the local community, including young people. It will give the area a fun and safe place for children to burn off energy.
“We own the park and were keen to make sure the changes were supported by everyone involved in the project.”
