A PLAY area at Purbeck Park in Bury has been transformed thanks to funding generated by residents and businesses.

Construction work has been completed at the location off Purbeck Drive in Brandlesholme.

To mark the end of the project, Mayor of Bury, Cllr Michelle Wiseman, will conduct a brief ribbon cutting ceremony at the park at 4pm on Friday, July 4.

Brandles-holme Residents Association, the driving force behind the improvements, swung into action after people said the play equipment was old and in need of replacement.

They raised £75,000 after securing funds from Viridor Credits Environmental Company, carrying out fundraising at Asda, and donations from residents and Hare Engineering.

Plans for the work were drawn up in consultation with the community and included a basket swing, climbing frame, round-about, see-saw and springies, in addition to the existing slide unit and toddler swings which have been refurbished.

Mum Elizabeth Williams said: “I’m really impressed with the new play area. The new equipment is clean and brightly coloured and there is a good range for little ones and older children to play on.”

The construction was carried out by Proffitt’s of Haslingden, whose communities project officer Alison McEwan said, “It has been a great project to work on — we’re delighted to see the park being used more and by different people.”

Honorary secretary of Brandlesholme Residents Association, Hilary Marshall, added: “Group members have received lots of positive feedback about the new facilities.

"The park appears to be used much more than previously and by new people, which is fantastic.

"We are now moving on to begin raising funds to carry out work on the kickabout area and drainage in other areas.”

Gareth Williams, acting general manager of Viridor Credits, added: “This has been a great project that has brought the residents of Brandlesholme together to create a lasting community resource.”

  • Anyone who can help Brandlesholme Residents Association with fundraising events or donations can visit brabull.org.uk.