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Play area in Steeple Bumpstead, near Haverhill created with ‘strong community input’




A much-needed new play park shaped by the community has been unveiled in Steeple Bumpstead.

The vibrant community space on North Crescent was officially opened on Monday by Braintree District Councillor for the Bumpsteads ward, Diana Garrod, and Steeple Bumpstead Parish Councillor and chairman, Kerry Barnes.

The project in the village just a few miles from Haverhill was funded by housing association Eastlight Community Homes and created to replace the previous old and unsafe equipment in the village.

Braintree District Councillor, Diana Garrod, Steeple Bumpstead Parish Councillor and chairman, Kerry Barnes and Eastlight estate safety officer, Mark Garnham are joined by children at the opening of the new play park on North Crescent. Picture: Paul Starr
Braintree District Councillor, Diana Garrod, Steeple Bumpstead Parish Councillor and chairman, Kerry Barnes and Eastlight estate safety officer, Mark Garnham are joined by children at the opening of the new play park on North Crescent. Picture: Paul Starr

Residents were invited to a consultation event to help Eastlight choose which playground provider they should use to create the new park.

With more than 50 residents sharing their thoughts, they chose playpark designers, HAGS, to construct their design.

Requesting a design that inspired imaginative play, a woodland-themed colour scheme and a space that was accessible for all, the park now boasts a range of modern and inclusive equipment including a variety of swings, trampoline, seesaw spinner, telescope and much more.

This roundabout is one of the features of the new play park equipment in Steeple BumpsteadPicture: Paul Starr
This roundabout is one of the features of the new play park equipment in Steeple BumpsteadPicture: Paul Starr

Cllr Garrod, said: “It’s absolutely wonderful that Eastlight have provided such a variety of play equipment for the community.

“It’s a lovely safe space and I can see by the number of children here today that it will be well used and much appreciated.”

Steeple Bumpstead resident, Tracy Antrobus, said: “It’s a new park for a new generation and it will give the local children more independence.”

Eastlight Community Homes estate safety officer, Mark Garnham, said: “We’re proud to see this project be completed with strong community support and input.

A young boy holding onto the telescope at the newly-opened play park in North Crescent, Steeple Bumpstead.Picture: Paul Starr
A young boy holding onto the telescope at the newly-opened play park in North Crescent, Steeple Bumpstead.Picture: Paul Starr

“It’s important to get the thoughts and ideas from residents to ensure we can create something the community will enjoy for years to come.

“We hope the playpark creates a lot of happy memories for all.”