'Save our park' plead youngsters who want to retain Peel play area

Peel Commissioners say they are continuing to ‘evaluate their options’ for playground provision in the west.

It’s after claims that the local authority is planning to reduce the number of play areas.

Over the weekend one parent who lives in Reayrt Ny Cronk took to social media to advise that the Close Caaig playground was being replaced with a picnic area.

It led to children who use the facility leading their own chants and making posters appealing for their park to be spared:

Parent Caitlin Dancox told Manx Radio she’s determined that it should be saved:

In response Peel Commissioners has told Manx Radio the Close Caaig playground requires ‘major works’ due to the condition of the artificial turf flooring which requires rebuilding.

They add: “The commissioners continue to evaluate their options for playground provision in this neighbourhood location.

“No date for works at Close Caaig playground has been set and the commissioners welcome any representations they receive from local residents who use this facility during this evaluation.

“The commissioners have contacted the residents who have contacted them over the weekend to advise them their views will be taken into consideration by the commissioners as part of their evaluation.”

Chris Gregory is the chief executive of the charity Isle of Play.

He told Manx Radio playgrounds are vital in aiding children’s development:

MHK for Glenfaba and Peel Kate Lord Brennan told Manx Radio: "I can only say that concerns from residents, children and families round here are valid – that particular play space is valued as a close local play space in an area with lots of families.

"It is also fenced off so could be brilliant again for little ones with the right thought about equipment.  

"Children are right when they say it needs to be improved not removed.  

"Clearly basic maintenance should be attended to as a matter of course and swing seats replaced etc."