Buckhurst Hill Liberal Democrats listening to local residents

8.53.39am GMT Fri 5th Jan 2007

Buckhurst Hill Liberal Democrat Parish Councillors have listened to the concerns of residents and petitioners and have scaled down the quantity, height and cost of the new equipment which it is proposed to install in a new, smaller site close to the old playground.

It is not envisaged that any trees will be removed and some hedges may be planted near to some Rous Road properties.

The Parish Council decided to locate the new playground outside the flood plain to avoid the new equipment being submerged when the river Roding floods the water meadows.

The new playground will provide fun, enjoyment and challenges for all children and will help them to develop social skills and learn about behaviour, communication, acceptance and friendship.

It has also been decided to refurbish the old playground for it to be used by older youths as a ball game area with benches for spectators which will provide stimulating and physically challenging sporting facilities.

Because of the changes that have been made a lower quote has been obtained and the cost of the project will be further reduced by grants which have been obtained from various sources. The impact on the council tax for householders in Buckhurst Hill is around £5 per year on band D properties.