Kearsney Abbey Play Area Opened

An exciting and creative new play area for Kearsney Abbey in River was officially opened this week.

The new-look play area has been extended with exciting new equipment and features. The high quality design was developed in consultation with the local community, including River Primary School. New equipment, including a ship climbing frame, wide slide, sandpit and scramble nets, has been designed for young children up to the age of ten, and has been added to the existing swings and multiplay unit. The design features landscaping elements and natural boulders, and includes three wooden swan seats reflecting the setting in Kearsney Abbey.

New equipment for children up to the age of 14 has also been added to the play area in Russell Gardens. In April, a multiplay unit and aerial roundabout were installed.

Both projects were developed in partnership with the community through a series of consultation events, carried out by the Kent Children's Fund Network, on behalf of Dover District Council. The new play areas have been funded by planning agreements secured by Dover District Council.

Cllr Sue Chandler, DDC Cabinet Member for Community, Housing and Youth said: "We are delighted to open another exciting play area, and we would like to thank all the local children and the community who helped us with the design. This follows improvements in Pencester Gardens, Marke Wood, Connaught Park, Elms Vale and the Butts in Sandwich, and we look forward to opening new facilities at Victoria Park later this year."

Cllr Nigel Collor, DDC Cabinet Member for Access and Property Management said: "We are very pleased to launch this extended play area for Kearsney Abbey, and to be able to provide new equipment in Russell Gardens. The popularity of the strategic play sites is very encouraging and these latest facilities form an important part of our ongoing commitment to improve strategic sites across the area."