Play as you learn

13/07/2007

A playground in Beccles has been turned into an attractive place for children to play and learn with cash from a community fund.

A £645 grant from the Essex & Suffolk Water Community Fund has helped transform the open space at Townlands into a ‘green island’ which is now home to a range of native trees and shrubs.

The spruced-up play area will give children the chance to learn about the environment and wildlife as well as providing them with an area in which to play.

The Friends of Townlands Green action group applied to the fund after identifying that area had deteriorated and was in need of regeneration.

Grants from the fund are available to encourage people to participate in local activities which will enhance their lives and create a resource to support the local community.

It is managed by Essex Community Foundation and covers four main areas: protecting the environment, promoting health and well being, education in the community and community support in areas of regeneration.

Any voluntary or community organisation within the counties of Essex and Suffolk that is situated or operates within the Essex & Suffolk supply area and fulfils at least one of the above criteria can apply to the fund. 

Jacqueline Searle from Essex & Suffolk Water said: “We are delighted to be able to support this worthwhile project. The playground will provide a valuable community resource.”

Doeke Dobma, chairperson from Friends of Townlands Green said: “We are very pleased with the grant. It will mean that the children have a more attractive area to play and learn in.”

To apply for a grant or to find out more information contact Essex Community Foundation on 01245 356 018 or visit their website www.essexcommunityfoundation.org.uk

Ends

For further information please contact Claire Bishop on 01245 212 010.