Families are celebrating the completion of new play equipment at Daisy Bank.
The project, led by Stroud Town Council, has been a community affair from the beginning with children and families having a say in what should be built.
The main play structure has been upgraded and replaced with new multi-level climbing equipment which is suitable for a greater span of ages to play on. All sand has been replaced.
It was funded by the Town Council, Stroud District Council through developer contributions gained from new local housing in the area and the Friends of Daisy Bank.
The Friends donated £5,000 towards the project with one group of children raising almost half that amount by running stalls at Daisy Bank community events. They also help keep it tidy.
Rosa Gillsmith, one of the children involved in the fundraising in the opening, said: “Fundraising for this has been so much fun. We ran stalls and held events during Daisy Day here at the park. I feel great that the next group of children will be able to play here.”
“Coming all together for the ice creams to celebrate is a great end to getting the new equipment. Now it is taller we can all play on it for longer,” said youngster Sam Dollimore.
Chris Woolner, Green Spaces Manager for the Town Council, said: “This equipment will make a great deal of difference to the community in and around The Daisy Bank. This is one of the most heavily used play areas about town and the refresh will make it a place for making memories for families for many years to come. The Town Council is thrilled to make this a reality and hope to update other equipment in Stroud going forward.”
Rachael O’Kelly says her children have played in Daisy Bank for the past 10 years. “It is an integral part of our lives,” she said.
“Wonderful friendships have been forged here – for adults and children alike. My eldest son will really benefit from the bigger size of play equipment.”
