Bratton play area refit complete following councillor's campaign

The refit of the Squirrel Meadow Play Area in Bratton has been completed following a successful community campaign organised by a local Lib Dem Councillor.

Cllr Kim Tonks launched a community petition in late 2022, after being approached by local mum Siobhan Bergman who was concerned about the state of the play area. The petition received 305 signatures, and Telford & Wrekin Council were persuaded to act.

The new play area is more accessible to children with disabilities. It includes the simulator - the first in the West Midlands. Children with limited lower body movement can sit in the supportive seat and hold on to the hand grips while it rocks and spins.

“I am absolutely delighted with the new play area," said Cllr Tonks. "I want to thank everyone in the community who came together to support this grassroots campaign.”

Pupils from St Peter’s C of E Academy were the first to try out the new equipment and it was an instant hit. 

Among the comments from local children were:

“My favourite equipment is the slide, it’s so much better than the old one!”

“Loads more stuff and looks much more exciting!” 

“I really like that there are more swings.” 

“My favourite equipment is the spinny chair, it's really good.”

Cllr Kim Tonks added: "At last the children of Bratton have the play area they deserve. This shows the power of local community action."