A NEWLY refurbished play area in an East Lancashire township is now open.

​The Masefield Close children's recreation space, off Wordsworth Drive in Great Harwood, was renovated thanks to a £98,000 grant from the FCC Communities Foundation.

The play area, also known as Milton Street, now has modern, inclusive, and exciting play equipment.

The design was shaped by extensive input from residents, families, and schools including feedback from St. Wulstan’s Roman Catholic Primary School and Great Harwood Primary School.

The revamped play area boasts eight new pieces of equipment including an inclusive roundabout accessible to children with disabilities; a trampoline; a zipline for older children; multiple slides designed for different age groups; and extra swings.

Hyndburn Council provided additional investment.

Richard Smith, grant manager for the FCC Communities Foundation which awards grants for community conservation and heritage projects using revenue donated through the Landfill Communities Fund, said: "It’s wonderful to see something we have funded finally open and ready to make such a difference to children and young people in Great Harwood and across Hyndburn.

"FCC Communities Foundation is always happy to consider grant applications for projects that benefit local communities and this is a great example of what can be achieved.”

Cllr Kimberley Whitehead, Hyndburn Council's parks and open spaces boss, said: “The new play area at Masefield Close is an example of how collaboration between Hyndburn Council, local community, schools and funders like the FCC Communities Foundation can deliver something truly special.

"This play area will provide a fantastic space for children to have fun, promote physical activity, and create a more vibrant environment for all."

Overton ward's Cllr Clare Yates said: “This upgrade is a tremendous boost for our community.

"The new play area at Masefield Close provides a safe and enjoyable space for our children and enhances the overall appeal of the neighbourhood.”

Earlier this year the play area at Mercer Park, Clayton-Le-Moors was reopened after significant investment.