New bench on Willowbed Field
A new bench has been sited on Willowbed Field to replace the vandalised benches.
Chickerell Play Area
As you are all aware the town council is committed to providing the residents of Chickerell with a brand new, well equipped and structured play area. Based on ideas from local young people, the future play area includes innovative new equipment which children of all abilities can enjoy. It will have stimulating areas for toddlers as well as more challenging facilities for older children.
Chickerell Town Council worked closely with community fundraisers and selected a design which closely matches the prize-winning idea by local school student Billy Doonan. The play area will be on Willowbed Field, which is owned and managed by the town council.
Following advice from West Dorset District Council’s Drainage Engineers, Chickerell Town Council is having a drainage survey done on the Willowbed Field and any resulting necessary works will then be undertaken before the installation of any equipment. This is being done by the Town Council to enable future enjoyment of the facilities in all weathers. We’re sure all residents are aware of the boggy nature of the field and we would hate to have a lovely new play area spoilt by mud or ice.
The community group raised £10,000 towards the £175,000 scheme, the rest of the funding is coming through Chickerell Town Council, Dorset County Council, West Dorset District Council and Chickerell Primary School with additional funds from C G Fry & Sons’ contributions towards community facilities to support future developments. The new Chickerell Youth Forum, Youfirst, is raising funds for seating on the field that the whole community can use.
Chickerell Mayor Jean Dunseith said “the designs for the play area are so exciting, particularly as they closely match what the children have dreamed about. Everyone will be able to join in the fun, as we will have slides, swings and a roundabout that disabled children and carers can also use. Older children can be active on the latest equipment as well as enjoying the quieter spaces. The new games court, together with the existing goalposts, will give opportunities for constructive exercise for the whole community. All the equipment will be built to very rugged standards, using environmentally friendly materials and will be suitable for the rural atmosphere of Willowbed Field.
The whole project has benefited from community involvement and the town council has been very busy behind the scenes organising public funding and practical issues such as drainage so facilities can operate all year round. I’m also very pleased that the new Chickerell youth forum is involved in the scheme, as it’s really important that the scheme provides what young people want and feel part of.”
The Town Council has been in discussions with the playground provider to finalise a scheme which is available to view at the town council offices Mon – Fri, 8.30am to 3.15pm. We are cloaed from 1.00pm – 1.30pm for lunch.
MUGA
This is a joint scheme between the Town Council and Chickerell Primary School. The school has received partial funding through an Extended Schools Grant (DCC) and funding and land will also be provided by Chickerell Town Council.
New Bus Shelter
After receiving a couple of requests from residents about the possibility of a new bus shelter along Chickerell Road near the junction for Australia Road, the Town Council considered it at their monthly meeting in March. It was agreed that a new bus shelter should be put at the stop and quotes are now being sought.
UPDATE – The new bus shelter for Chickerell Road has now been ordered and will be installed shortly!
This is another example of the Town Council listening and responding to the needs of the residents.