Articles

Newly refurbished Valley Road Playground officially opens to local families

Date Posted: 5:31 PM on Thu, 24 April 2025

Gedling Borough Council is delighted to announce the official opening of the newly refurbished Valley Road Playground in Carlton, following the completion of a major transformation made possible by a £100,000 grant from FCC Communities Foundation.

The new-look playground features an exciting range of equipment including a 30-metre zip line, swings, monkey bars, and wheelchair-accessible seesaw. It also boasts two DDA-compliant trampolines, a basket swing, and interactive play panels, ensuring the space is inclusive and accessible for children of all abilities.

To celebrate the reopening, local families, members of the Friends of Valley Road Playing Field group, and representatives from FCC Communities Foundation gathered at the park to try out the new facilities and mark the occasion.

Mayor of Gedling, Councillor Ron McCrossen, who officially opened the play area, said:
“It’s a real pleasure to open this fantastic new play area. This park has always been popular with families, and thanks to the funding from FCC Communities Foundation and the dedication of the Friends of Valley Road, it’s now better than ever. It’s great to see such an inclusive space where children of all ages and abilities can play together and enjoy being outdoors.”

Marie Spinks, Chair of the Friends of Valley Road Playing Field, said:
“Seeing the finished playground filled with happy, excited children makes all the hard work worthwhile. This has been a real community effort, and we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved. We’re so grateful to everyone who supported the project – this new space will be a real asset to local families for many years to come.”

Penny Horne, FCC Communities Foundation Grant Manager, added:
“It’s fantastic to see the transformation of Valley Road Playground now complete. The new equipment is not only fun but inclusive, and we’re proud to have played a role in creating a space that brings people together and promotes active outdoor play for everyone.”

The project has been delivered in partnership with Gedling Borough Council, the Friends of Valley Road Playing Field, and FCC Communities Foundation. Nottinghamshire County Council, which owns the land and leases it to Gedling Borough Council, has also supported the project.