Families in Walkington are enjoying a transformed village play area following the completion of a £72,000 refurbishment project.
The improvements were carried out by Walkington Playing Field Association, with the majority of the funding coming from a £62,400 award from East Riding of Yorkshire Council through commuted sums generated by local housing developments. A further £9,600 in match funding helped bring the total cost of the scheme to £72,000.
The refurbishment has replaced ageing play equipment and introduced new, modern facilities designed to make the site more accessible and enjoyable for children of all ages and abilities.
Among the improvements are new play equipment, upgraded safety surfacing and inclusive features, including a wheelchair-accessible roundabout, creating a safer and more welcoming environment for local families and visitors.
The playing field has long been regarded as an important community asset, providing children with a place to play, socialise and enjoy outdoor activities close to the village’s preschool and primary school.
Lawrence Webster, chairman of Walkington Playing Field Association, said the grant had enabled the charity to make a significant improvement to the site.
“The commuted sums grant has helped us make a huge difference to the facility, close to our preschool and local primary school,” he said.
“Our charity has been providing sports and leisure facilities for Walkington village for over 70 years with consistent support from the council and our parish council. We have an ambitious development programme, and we look forward to the next 70 years, working with our partners. We say a big thank you to the Council!”
Councillor Nick Coultish, East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s cabinet member for culture, leisure, tourism and planning, welcomed the completion of the project.
“I am delighted that this award of commuted sums has helped deliver significant improvements to this popular community play area,” he said.
“The new equipment and accessible features will provide children and families with a modern, inclusive space to enjoy for many years to come.”
The refurbished play area is expected to serve generations of local families, ensuring the village continues to benefit from a high-quality outdoor space for recreation and community life.
