The Scholes playground in Leeds has been transformed with new safety surfacing, a stylish multi-unit for climbing and sliding, and fun additions like a spinner and seesaw, thanks to funding from Emmerdale’s stakeholder fund and local councils. This revitalization, completed on December 1st, breathes new life into the community, ensuring that children can enjoy safe and modern play facilities for years to come.
What recent improvements have been made to the Scholes playground in Leeds?
The Scholes playground in Leeds has been revitalized with new safety surfacing, a modern play multi-unit for climbing and sliding, and additional equipment like a spinner and a seesaw. This refurbishment was supported by Emmerdale’s stakeholder fund and local councils, enhancing functionality, safety, and aesthetic appeal.
Revitalization of Scholes Playground
Residents of Scholes, a charming community situated in the eastern fringes of Leeds, have welcomed the reopening of their beloved playground. After enduring years of wear and tear, the local play area has finally received a much-needed facelift. The refurbishment, completed on the symbolic date of 1 December, marks a significant improvement not just for Scholes, but for play areas across the city.
The playground’s rejuvenation has been long overdue. Having been last refurbished more than a decade and a half ago, the site had shown clear signs of aging. Now, thanks to the collaborative funding efforts, Scholes’ younger residents can once again enjoy modern play facilities. The project was notably supported by a stakeholder fund from the iconic television show, Emmerdale.
This development is particularly notable for its connection to the filming locale of the beloved soap opera. Emmerdale’s production in the Harewood ward has not only entertained audiences but also brought tangible benefits to the community. The playground’s refurbishment is directly linked to the planning permission granted for the construction of the Emmerdale film set on the Harewood House Estate.
Funding and Support
The project’s success is attributed to the financial contributions from multiple sources. Emmerdale’s stakeholder fund played a pivotal role, ensuring the playground would see the upgrades it deserved. However, it was the combined efforts with Leeds City Council, Barwick and Scholes Parish Council, and the dedication of local ward members that brought this project to fruition.
Leeds City Council has been instrumental in this undertaking, allocating resources towards the renewal of the city’s play areas. The synergy between the council, the parish council, and the private fund by Emmerdale demonstrates a shared commitment to the welfare of Leeds’ younger inhabitants. This collective approach has resulted in a tangible improvement to Scholes’ public amenities.
Further details about the refurbishment reveal a host of new features for the playground. These enhancements include:
- New surfacing to ensure safety and accessibility for all children.
- A modern multi-unit, designed to promote climbing, sliding, and creative play.
- Additional recreational equipment such as a spinner and a seesaw to cater to a variety of play preferences.
These upgrades not only refresh the playground’s appearance but also significantly improve its functionality and safety, ensuring that it can be enjoyed by the community for years to come.
A Commitment to Child-Friendly Spaces
Leeds continues to demonstrate its dedication to fostering child-friendly environments. Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment, and green space, articulated the council’s vision. He stated, “It’s great to see yet another playground in Leeds refreshed to be fit for future play.” This sentiment underscores the council’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and improving the city’s green spaces.
Rafique further emphasized the importance of accessible play areas as a cornerstone of the city’s Child Friendly Leeds ambition. He highlighted that creating safe havens for children to play, socialize, and enjoy themselves is a priority. The intent is clear: to ensure that children across Leeds, irrespective of their neighborhood, can benefit from well-maintained communal spaces.
As we move forward, the council’s efforts to enhance playgrounds have been recognized and celebrated by the community. Rafique expressed pride in the hard work that has made Leeds’ playgrounds more enjoyable and inviting this year. It is a testament to the city’s resolve to prioritize its younger residents and to invest in infrastructure that supports a vibrant, active, and inclusive community life.
In conclusion, the Scholes playground stands as a beacon of Leeds’ dedication to creating engaging and secure environments for children. Its reopening signifies much more than just a renovation; it’s a reaffirmation of the city’s pledge to ensure that play remains an integral part of growing up in Leeds. With the support of local governing bodies, parish councils, and community-conscious entities like Emmerdale, Leeds continues to build on its vision of being a truly child-friendly city.
Child Friendly Leeds initiative aims to bring together all these efforts and galvanize further actions to maintain and enhance such vital community resources.
ENDS
- The Scholes playground in Leeds has been renovated with new safety surfacing, a climbing and sliding multi-unit, and additional equipment like a spinner and seesaw.
- This revitalization was funded by Emmerdale’s stakeholder fund in collaboration with local councils, marking a significant community enhancement.
- The playground had not been refurbished for over 15 years and had shown clear signs of aging before this project.
- Councillor Mohammed Rafique emphasized the council’s commitment to creating safe and accessible play areas as part of the Child Friendly Leeds initiative.
- The reopening of the playground represents Leeds’ dedication to fostering child-friendly environments and investing in community resources for future generations.