Playing safe in Newton
Big improvements have been made to play facilities in Newton, after the parish council secured more than £53,000 in funding for its special playing field project. FDC contributed nearly £27,000 from its Rural Capital Fund to support the project, with most of the rest coming from the Big Lottery Fund.
Various local organisations have also contributed materials, expertise and manpower.
The money has enabled the site to be safely enclosed with new fencing, as well as providing a youth shelter and some new equipment.
Parish councillor Cllr Doug Fullbrook said: "The work has made a great difference to the field, giving the young people in the village a really nice area to play.
"The whole area has been fenced in, making it a safer environment for children and we have installed a new play area with swings, a wheel-chair accessible roundabout, climbing frame, zip wire and goal posts. We've also levelled the access routes leading to the play area.
"We'd encourage other local groups to contact FDC to see whether they might be eligible for this kind of funding. It's easy to apply and the grant has made a real difference to us."
The Rural Capital Fund was set up last year and is aimed specifically at communities outside the four market towns.
Councillor Chris Seaton, FDC's portfolio holder responsible for community grants, said: "These improvements have given Newton's children and young people a safer and better equipped open space to enjoy. They show what can be achieved with this kind of grant.
"There is still money available, so if you have a project that you think might qualify for funding, do get in touch with us."
For details of the Rural Capital Fund, call Hetty Thornton at FDC on 01354 654321 or e-mail hthornton@fenland.gov.uk
