Hitchin: New Bancroft play area set to open in May

Climbing nets, swing sets, a roller-running disk and trampolines will all be added to the junior play area at Bancroft Recreation Ground.

North Herts Council are overseeing the works, which will be conducted by landscape architects Groundwork East following a public consultation last year.

The aim is for the renovation to improve the play experience for children aged around 5 to 12, by making it brighter, more inviting and safer.

Work started after the recent half-term holiday and the area will be closed while it takes shape. North Herts Council are hoping to open the new area around mid-May.

Cllr Steve Jarvis, executive member for environment and leisure at the council, said: “Following consultation exercises last year, we’re really pleased to start work on improving this play area for local users.

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"In response to feedback from the consultation, the play area has been redesigned incorporating more swings, more climbing opportunities, softer landscaping, shaded areas, picnic tables, and we’ll be retaining and refurbishing the pirate ship.

"We know it will be missed while it’s closed but it’ll be worth the wait as we remove equipment that’s coming to the end of its life and make lots of exciting new additions, in time for the summer season.”

Catherine Browne, landscape architect at Groundwork East, added: “There will be a great deal of new play equipment in a more considered layout with accompanying sensory planting, to make a really lovely space for lots of people to enjoy. We hope you enjoy the trampolines!”