Earlier this year, I launched a campaign, supported by my ward colleagues, Simon and Holly, and my Kenley colleagues, Gayle and Ola to get a new playground at Roke Open Space, which was decommissioned some years ago, and left in an increasingly derelict state. Such a shame, given the number of families and young children who live in proximity.
You can see my video here.
We enlisted the support of Mayor Perry, and we are delighted that Council officers listened to us and have allocated funding from the s106 pot (money that developers contribute for local projects and improvements) for new play equipment. This also effectively recommissions the space, meaning that the Council will have a responsibility for ongoing maintenance and repairs. This is a fantastic step to restore pride in Purley and Kenley so thank you so much to the many residents who got in touch with me about this.
We are also very grateful to the Purley & Woodcote Residents Association (PWRA) and the Kenley Residents Association (KENDRA) for donating money for a slide, which I know everyone will enjoy. Following feedback ,
The play equipment should be in by the beginning of October and I'm excited that Mayor Perry, Cllr Roche (Cabinet Member for Streets and Environment), Purley & Woodcote and Kenley councillors will be opening this playground officially on Saturday 18th October at 1pm. We hope to see as many residents as possible!
Kompan which provides the equipment has shared the plans in the image. It looks absolutely fantastic. We were also pleased that they took on board feedback from councillors and residents for a bit of space for ball games.
Thank you to Mayor Perry, Cllr Roche, officers and residents for helping us make this happen!
Cllr Samir Dwesar
