LEAF Lane play area in Winsford was officially opened last week following a long-awaited refurbishment.

The play area’s launch party took place on August 30, and was attended by the deputy mayor, seven months after a grant was confirmed to refurbish the site.

New play equipment has been installed - including swings, slides and roundabouts - funded by a £50,000 grant from FCC Communities Foundation.

This is a not-for-profit business that awards grants for community projects through the Landfill Communities Fund.

Cllr Lyndsay Barwell, deputy mayor of Winsford, is delighted that the project is now in use.

She said: “This vital facility is going to make a real difference to those who use it, as well as the wider Winsford community.

St Helens Star: Cllr Lyndsay Barwell, deputy mayor of Winsford, opened Leaf Lane Play AreaCllr Lyndsay Barwell, deputy mayor of Winsford, opened Leaf Lane Play Area

“We are extremely grateful to FCC Communities Foundation for providing funding as we would not have been able to go ahead without its support.”

It was announced back in January that Leaf Lane had been successful in securing a £50,000 improvement scheme grant.

Although it was initially hoped the work would be completed by the end of March of this year, supplier delays mean the work was delayed.

As well as the new equipment, installation and maintenance costs, town council documents revealed money would be spent on drainage and surface replacements - which have been an issue for some time.

In April, Cllr Barwell explained on social media: "During the first lockdown, the wet pour surfacing lifted at the edges and deteriorated very quickly.

St Helens Star: Leaf Lane Play AreaLeaf Lane Play Area

"More than one provider of playground surfacing told us not to bother replacing it until work on the drainage was done, to ensure future surfacing would last longer.”

Cheryl Raynor, FCC Community Foundations local grant manager, said she was pleased the work was now complete.

She added: “We are delighted to have supported the town council in bringing this project to fruition.

“This is an important facility for the local children, and we are pleased to see it open and available to use.”

St Helens Star: Cllr Lyndsay Barwell, deputy mayor of WinsfordCllr Lyndsay Barwell, deputy mayor of Winsford