Lottery Money pays for Teenage Recreation Area

The new teenage recreation area in Alexandra Recreation Ground was declared "open" on 10th April and the Mayor presented with a cheque for £65,000 from the Big Lottery Fund.

Councillors, Friends of Alexandra Park, Police, Council Rangers and the Chief Executive stood by at the official opening of the area to watch the Mayor and Chairman of the Leisure Committee cut the ribbon. New play equipment for 12 - 19 year olds has been installed, a new sports court created and a grassy area built for teenagers to "hang out".

Cllr Christine Key, College ward representative on the Leisure Committee, said "This new area looks really smart and was being used by all ages during the opening ceremony! The more we can do to provide older children with activities and places to go, the better. It keeps them occupied and safe."

The Recreation Ground has seen considerable investment in recent years. Ten years ago when faced with regular anti-social behaviour and disturbances in the day and at nighttime, Lib Dem councillors championed the formation of the Martial Arts Centre which created a presence in the park. The playground was moved from its old site in a disused chalk pit to a new location beside the tennis courts : it is now one of the most modern playgrounds in the borough.

Sadly, the site of the old playground must now be kept locked awaiting boreholes to test for contamination, which could take two or three years because of lack of funds. The tarmac tennis courts, which are free, are due to have their refurbishment completed in the next couple of weeks, with new lines painted and new nets installed for the summer season.

If you would like more information on Alexandra Recreation Ground contact any of the College ward councillors.