MORE than 100 Brackley residents urged town councillors to re-think where they plan to put thousands of pounds worth of play equipment during a public meeting last week.
Brackley Town Council recently revealed plans to build swings, slides and roundabouts, suitable for children aged eight and over, on empty land enclosed by Humphries Drive, Pavillons Way and Banbury Road.
But several residents believe the site, cu
rrently used by dog walkers and local children for ball games, is unsuitable.
At a public meeting in the Town Hall on Monday evening, some said they were concerned the site was enclosed by three busy roads making access for younger people dangerous.
Others questioned why equipment could not be installed at a previous play site in the town.
Many people at the meeting supported the need for new play equipment, but argued the location was wrong. Some were concerned the facilities could be at risk of vandalism.
David Pittman, of Woods Court, asked why it was not possible to relocate the project to a park in Swift Way which has recently seen play equipment removed after it was damaged by vandals.
Brackley Mayor, Cllr Kevin Dixon, said Swift Way was not suitable for the type of equipment they wanted to use.
He added: "Dare I say, maybe smaller play equipment could be put in there at a later date."
The Rev Peter Idris Taylor, of Brackley Methodist Church, said he had changed his perception of the debate through the course of the meeting.
He said as the meeting started, he got the impression people did not want the money spent at all but, as it progressed, he understood many would be happy to see money spent in the right place.
Councillors are expected to discuss their response to the views at the town council's next direct responsibility committee meeting on Monday, October 20.
The council is proposing to install six pieces of play equipment, including a cable slide, a giant rope climbing net, and a tower with a seating area and tunnel slide.
Originally the council had planned to site new equipment in the recreation ground in High Street. However, an archaeological survey on the National Trust land revealed the remains of an ancient building, forcing the council to look elsewhere.
The full article contains 389 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
