Exciting new features at Wyre Estuary Country Park

16th December 2010

Categories: Latest News

Ground work has started on a new play area at the Wyre Estuary Country Park in Thornton.

A section of this much-visited park is being cleared and levelled in the run up to Christmas ready for the installation of swinging, climbing and balancing equipment and new picnic benches.

Set to open in the spring, it will make use of natural materials such as timber and bark to retain all the character of its surroundings - mature woodlands on three sides and overlooking the Wyre Estuary.

Steps will also be taken to replace any habitats or breeding grounds disturbed during the excavation work, while the excess soil will be used to create earthbanks for beetles and invertebrates.

Park owner Wyre Borough Council has been able to provide the facilities thanks to a £90,000 Forestry Commission grant. The funding is for projects that allow people to reconnect with nature and provide opportunities for physical activity.

Councillor Lynne Bowen, the council's Cabinet member with responsibility for parks, said: "Play facilities are the one thing that has been missing from this beautiful park. After planning this project for some time, it's great to see it nearing completion.

"Visitors to the park and local people had a chance to influence the designs and features during a consultation last summer. The feedback was very positive and we're looking forward to bringing these ideas to life in the spring."

More information on Wyre Estuary Country Park