BASILDON Council is seeking the views of residents regarding the concept design for a new play area to be created at Wat Tyler Country Park.

The new play area comes as part of the council's Play Review, a 10-year programme of approximately £9 million investment in the borough's play areas, to create a network of play facilities for residents across the borough.

A concept design for the new play area has been developed, and now the authority is asking for comments from residents on what they think about the design, and specifically if there are any comments regarding inclusivity that should be taken into account. Following this consultation exercise, the design will be finalised, with the new play area scheduled to be opened by the beginning of June 2022.

The concept design features a multitude of varied equipment, with lots of elements suitable for wheelchair users, and children of all ages and abilities.

Chairman of the Leisure and Environment Committee Cllr Craig Rimmer said: "This major investment will add significant improvements to one of our most popular play sites in the borough, making an already fantastic facility even better for our borough's young people. The design really is something to get excited about.

"We know how important play areas are, providing lots of fun and memories for children and their families. And best of all, they're totally free places to enjoy. Our Play Review is about making our play areas across the borough the highest quality possible, and that's what we want you to help us achieve at Wat Tyler Country Park.

"Please have your say and let us know your thoughts on the concept design. You can help shape it to be the best it can be, for you."

The consultation will run until noon on Wednesday, 12 January. You can view the current design brief via this link.