There is a long running question over what exactly is happening with Sweyne Park play area. It seems to spend more time closed or partially closed than it does open. Residents have taken to social media in the past to ask what it going on and even when they have contacted the council directly, it appears they never get the answer.
Parks are undoubtedly an important facility for socialising, mental health and a good place to spend some family time.
I’ve been trying to chase down the answers for residents and have now got the following information to share.
“They have removed a lot of equipment as they plan to obtain a grant to replace it. The gym type equipment failed a ROSPA check. They have applied for £55,000 from Enovert Community Trust (was Cory) and the decision will be made at its meeting on 26th September 2018. The application includes new gym equipment, swings and play equipment to fill the areas they have removed equipment from. I mentioned that the public had been asking for shade in this play area and the RDC Officer is against any type of shading due to vandalism which is regular in this park. He says that the new scheme includes planting of trees that would provide shade.”
I then asked about the inclusion of a water drinking fountain and have had the following response
“I would have concerns over hygiene and the risk of legionella in an unmanned park.”
Personally I find the response very frustrating but this is very indicative of the type of administration that is in power at Rochford District Council. It’s an uphill struggle!