Recreation projects set to receive cash boost

Two outdoor recreation projects designed to keep people fit and healthy are to each receive a share of more than £100k from Babergh District Council following the latest round of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding.

Cabinet members voted to approve bids which will see Mill Lane Play Area and Assington Village Hall improve outdoor facilities for local residents.

Located in Copdock and Washbrook, Mill Lane Play area will receive £93k which will be used to replace the current play equipment, with brand new features.

The current play equipment has been in place for more than 30 years, with some pieces coming towards the end of their lifespan.

 This CIL bid will allow the parish council, who are also contributing towards the project financially, to enhance the range of play options and inclusivity provided with a range of play equipment.

The new play area will feature pieces of equipment which are designed to ensure children with disabilities or mobility challenges can make use of the facilities. This includes the swings, carousel and play panels as well as Eco smart grass matting to improve accessibility and ease of use.

The parish council is contributing a further £31k towards the total cost of the project, alongside financial contributions from other local supporters.

Cabinet members also noted one successful bid under delegated approval with just over £11k going to Assington Village Hall for the creation of a brand-new outside gym facility.

With a focus on creating an inclusive and accessible recreation, play and exercise area for the local community and visitors, the new equipment will be free to use making it particularly beneficial for those unable to afford a commercial gym membership but wanting to remain active.

For both projects, CIL funding will cover the majority of the costs, with charitable organisations, local parish councils and alternative district council funding streams, contributing the remaining funds.

CIL payments are legally required from developers when building residentials sites across the district. Monies collected are then redistributed by the council to go towards local community projects to ensure they can keep up with housing growth.

Sallie Davies, the cabinet member for Heritage, Planning and Infrastructure at Babergh District Council, said: “I am really pleased to approve the latest round of CIL bids – these are two great projects that will be incredibly beneficial for local communities.

“Having accessible outdoor facilities to stay active and connect with your community is really important and I hope that residents are truly able to make the most out of them.”

Bids for CIL funding are regularly reviewed by cabinet, so that the money can be reinvested into local infrastructure to help communities to keep pace with the impacts of housing growth.