Young People are a Priority

Epsom & Ewell Borough Council has agreed that providing facilities for young people, specifically 11 - 19 year olds, should be a priority over the next few years in local recreation grounds. The proposal, put forward by the Lib Dems at October's meeting of the Leisure Committee, will be taken forward by the council.

Cllr Jonathan Lees who proposed the amendment said 'We all know that young people are a priority and there is not much for this age group to do. Residents constantly ask what we are doing for young people and whilst play equipment for the 0-11 years olds in many of our parks has been updated, it's the 11- 19 years olds who are underprovided for. I was very pleased that the committee agreed to support the proposal.

Cllr Lees says that adopting this "key priority" follows nicely on the back of the successful initiative in Alexandra Recreation Ground, where lottery funding was secured to upgrade an area suitable for the older age group. The basketball courts in Alexandra Rec are to be refurbished and "play" equipment provided in accordance with views expressed after a consultation in September with some 40 potential users.