Children with additional support needs will have another play park to enjoy this summer as a host of inclusive play equipment is installed at a Johnstone park.
The play area at Thomas Shanks Park is currently undergoing a major upgrade, with a host of new equipment being installed for children of all ages and abilities to use.
The area will, once complete in three weeks time, feature a cantilever basket swing, wheelchair-friendly roundabout, hammock and double spring see-saw.
A cone climber, gravity rider, mini basket swing and reactions web game wall will also be included alongside sensory play schemes such as talk tubes, x & o play panel, musical play panel, babel drum, glockenspiel and mirror play panel.
The new improved park, situated off Beith Road, is being delivered by Renfrewshire Council through its £1.87million Green Spaces, Parks and Play Areas and Villages Investment Fund.
Councillor Cathy McEwan, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s infrastructure, land and environment policy board, said: “I’m delighted that the works to the play park are underway as they will be a fantastic addition to the park and will encourage young people to get out in the fresh air and enjoy their surroundings.
“We’re continually working to provide improved and more inclusive play equipment within our play parks and the range of equipment being installed here will ensure that all children will be able to enjoy their local play
area.”
She added: “It’s been great to work closely with the Friends of Shanks Park to develop and implement these improvements and I would encourage any other local people or groups to come forward with their suggestions.
“Our Green Spaces, Parks and Play Areas and Villages Investment Fund offers local groups the chance to make improvements just like the ones in Thomas Shanks Park and you can find out more at www.renfrewshire.gov.uk/GreenSpacesFund.”
Thomas Shanks Park, which takes its name from Johnstone’s leading industrialist of the nineteenth century, also includes a skateboard ramp and two grass football pitches.
All those who use the new play park, as well as those booking the soon to be opened football pitches, are being reminded to adhere to coronavirus safety measures including physical distancing.
