Plans have been unveiled for a new adventure playground at Pennington Flash. Wigan Council has shared some artist's impressions of how the play area could look once the transformation is complete.
It is now inviting people to have their say on the plans, which will see swings, climbing frames, zip lines and more introduced to the Leigh beauty spot.
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But ahead of this weekend's consultation event, which takes place at the nature reserve between 12pm and 4pm this Saturday, July 16, families have already been having their say on the proposals - with many of them saying the same thing, that they want a splash park.
"A splash park would be better," commented Claire Lee on the council's Facebook page. "Something for everyone that way as well, and nothing of its kind locally, closest is Morecombe (I may be wrong on that but it's the only one I know)."
"A splash park would be amazing," said Jemma Williams. "They have them in pretty much every park in Wales. Would love to see one round here."
Others agreed, including Stephen King, who said: "The toddler lake should be a splash park I think It would be so good for the kids on sunny days and maybe stop people thinking about it swimming in the flash."
And Chloe Menzies, who added: "Definitely think a splash park would be a great addition."
The proposals are part of a £2.4m makeover of the facilities at the nature reserve, which will also include a new visitor centre and café, where there'll be new toilets and baby change facilities. Plans for the inclusive nature-themed adventure play area also include a central toddler ‘lake’, featuring play equipment modelled on swans and boats.
There'll be a range of wheelchair accessible items such as a roundabout, sailing boat, and a bespoke Swan Springer that can accommodate up to 8 children and is designed with back support and handrails.
The plan is to have a number of different types of swings, including those for multiple users, and there’ll also be an accessible see saw suitable for wheelchair users.
Councillor Chris Ready, Wigan Council’s portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “The new play area promises to be a fabulous addition to Pennington Flash Nature Reserve, making it an even more attractive place for families to spend a day out.
“We’re delighted with how our plans have been coming together and we’re really excited to share our progress. We want this to be a wonderful asset for the whole community, and as such we’d love as many people as possible to come along to see our plans, talk to members of our design team and help us shape the final result.
“This will be an inclusive play area which children with additional needs will be able to enjoy with their families and friends, and we’re particularly keen for feedback on this element from children and families – including members of our Wigan Parent Carer Forum.”
The plans, which have been developed following initial feedback from young people, are intended to complement the play area’s surroundings and include a seating and picnic area alongside play equipment suitable for under 5s and children up to the age of 11.
Subject to planning approval, work on the play area is expected to begin early in 2023 and hopefully completed by the spring.
Councillor Keith Cunliffe, deputy leader of Wigan Council, said: “We know that improving the facilities at Pennington Flash Nature Reserve is one of the top priorities for residents as part of our Believe in Leigh Fund and the creation of this fabulous new play area is all part of our efforts to create the best possible experience for families.
“With work already well underway to resurface footpaths, install new signage and improve car parking – and with our new visitor centre and cafe due to open later this year – it’s a really exciting time for one of the jewels in Leigh’s crown.”
You can read more about the plans for the site here.
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