The charity which helps run Surfleet’s Glen Park says a new government grant will help keep it open after repair costs have seen it close for spells.
Surfleet Play and Recreation Charity is celebrating news of an £18,436 grant from the government’s UKPF GRASSroots levelling up fund.
Chairman, Nick Davis said: “We are absolutely delighted with the award.
“For the past 20 years, Glen Park has been the most popular community-based leisure venue in South Holland, yet it has never enjoyed the same support from the public bodies as other local organisations, even when children’s safety is involved.
“This has occasionally resulted in the closure of the heavily-used play facilities while volunteers have had to raise the money for essential repairs.
“So the grant is both a very welcome demonstration of support for Glen Park, and recognition of the hard work that Surfleet Play and Recreation Charity volunteers have carried out to keep it open.”
Mr Davis said the equipment is now 18-years-old and needs increasingly expensive annual repair.
“Four years ago, SPARC was left with no choice but to close the play area when we were unable to immediately raise the £16,000 needed to carry out essential repairs.
“The play area re-opened after two years, but together with other activity equipment on site, had to undergo further restoration in 2023 costing £4,500.
“Now, thanks to the grant, a further £6,870 will be spent on repairs this year, with some items considered beyond economic repair replaced with equipment better suited to younger children, particularly those with disabilities and specially designed to take wheelchairs,” he added.
“The money will also help to extend the shelter and storage for the Glen Park forest school.”
