CDRA recently received an email from a concerned resident asking if we had noticed the deterioration of the local playgrounds: Woodgate Avenue, RAF Chessington Green Space, Churchfields and Sir Francis Barker in particular.
We contacted our local councillors and received a helpful reply from Councillor Lorraine Dunstone. She advised the following:
Woodgate Avenue playground
Woodgate Avenue playground is currently undergoing works that began at the beginning of August. These include:
- Cleaning the MUGA pitch, relining and recolouring the playing surface, and refixing fence panels.
- Pressure washing the play equipment.
- Installation of a new large basket swing and replacement of the rope serpent swing.
- New swing seats on the existing swing frames.
- Installation of a new play area compliant self-closing gate which will also be widened to permit wheelchair access.
Churchfields playground
The trampoline was scheduled for repair. However, the lead time has increased following recent anti-social behaviour where additional panels and fittings were removed. Councillor Dunstone has requested an update from the contractor, Glendale, who is chasing their play supplier.
RAF Chessington and Sir Francis Barker playgrounds
Councillor Dunstone was unaware of issues regarding the RAF Chessington Green Space play area and Sir Francis Barker playing field. She said she would investigate and come back to us. She later forwarded an email from Kingston Council’s Green Spaces officer:
“I have recently inspected the play sites throughout the south of the borough. Following the inspection, I identified several faulty or missing items. The matter was raised with the contractor Glendale at the recent operational meeting, and we have also been reviewing their play inspection processes.
“Many items have been isolated or, in some cases, removed to prevent or reduce any potential hazard. However, the lead time for recent repairs has not been acceptable and this has been escalated to senior officers.
“In response, Glendale will carry out remedial works where replacement play equipment and components are immediately available. They are also liaising with play providers and manufacturers to address faulty items requiring specialist fitting or bespoke components, aiming to improve current repair lead times.
“In addition, Glendale will use internal resources to address issues with play surfaces, particularly damaged wetpour. If successful, this approach will reduce the need for external contractors and allow patch repairs to be carried out more responsively.
“We apologise for the delays in completing some of these repairs. Please be assured that we are continuing to work closely with Glendale and the relevant manufacturers to progress the outstanding issues as quickly as possible. I have instructed supervisors to keep me updated on any developments and progress, and I will, of course, keep you informed as matters advance.”
We are pleased to hear that the playground issues are in hand.
