The children’s play area on Southwold will be fully refurbished, Conservative-controlled Bicester Town Council has confirmed.
Last month, the play area at Holm Square was severely damaged by vandals leaving it closed for safety reasons but the park has been thrown a lifeline after local Councillors agreed to recondition the site. £57,000 will be spent on new equipment meaning that the park can reopen.
Councillors have committed to listening to residents' views on designs for the new play area via social media and drop-in sessions.
The Council has also applied for funding from the Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner to strengthen security and visibility at the park to help towards deterring further vandalism including exploring options such as additional lighting and CCTV.
Bicester North Councillors, Jason Slaymaker, Nick Mawer, Alex Thrupp and Lynn Pratt said: “Like many residents, we were appalled by the incidents at Southwold park. The play area is really popular with local children with both the school and shops nearby which is why we advocated for a full rebuild. The actions of an inconsiderate minority shouldn’t ruin the experience for the rest.”
The Council also approved funding to refurbish Mallards Way play area on Langford and redesign the play area at Garth Park.
Approximately £250,000 will be spent on the renovations across all three sites.
