Grant for play area could be withdrawn, Axminster

A GRANT of �40,000 for a new play area in Axminster could be withdrawn under the new government.

Despite residents successfully applying for the grant for the project in the Millwey Rise area, it is not known if funds will be available until the end of August.

East Devon District Council’s housing team helped residents apply for the grant, from Devon Playbuilder, after they identified it as a priority.

But EDDC has vowed to work hard to find alternative funding to deliver as much of the play area as possible if the money is no longer available.

Only last week, over 100 residents turned out to have a say on the design of a new play area.

An overwhelming majority of 75 people voted for an area which included climbing rocks, a basket swing and toddler equipment. Re-fencing the area to make it safe for children was also part of the chosen design.

People from 14 to 76 attended event, which included activities such as face painting and learning circus skills.

Residents have been working on moving the play area to a new location for over a year. It will now be in The Square, behind the Spar Shop, in First Avenue. The current play area in Millwey Rise is said to be under-used and encouraging anti-social behaviour.

Some money will come from 106 funding, which has been collected by EDDC from developers who have built new housing developments in the area.