2021 has been a mixed year for Kings Meadow – the triumph of course being the opening of the new playground in February, but the ever-looming presence of Covid meaning that we haven’t been able to have an official opening of the playground yet, let alone any of our other community get-togethers that had started to become a bit of a tradition.
We hope – Covid permitting – to welcome the New Year in with of a bang by holding our first event in the park for two years – a Family Fitness trail on Sunday 2 January. It’ll be a chance to get the kids away from screens and into the fresh air for some light exercise, a cuppa and a piece of cake with friends. Follow our Facebook page for more details.
We know how much the majority of the community appreciate the new playground, and we’re so pleased with what has been achieved, but we are aware that there are some issues that need to be addressed – the sensory boards are being replaced, the ‘moat’ will shortly be filled in with blue wetpour, and the planted area will be turfed. We’re also aware that the provision for children with disabilities can and should be much improved, and that will be a focus for the Friends’ fundraising efforts going forward. We’d love parents of children with disabilities to help us identify how we can ensure the playground meets their needs.
And finally, after four long years fundraising and planning our new playground, many of the original Friends team are looking to step down from the Committee. Though we’ll always turn out to support the park, we feel that it’s time for some new blood to bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm for phase two. Lots of the committee will be staying on, but we need a new Chair, Treasurer and Secretary. If you’d be interested in getting involved, in one of these three roles or just as a committee member, please let us know.