Play park wins award for innovative design
A PLAY park aimed at kick-starting a massive regeneration project has scooped a national award in recognition of its children and family-friendly design.
The new Whitley Bay play site – the first completed part of the town's 60m regeneration project – won the Children's Play category in the prestigious Local Government News Street Design 2008 competition.
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The competition aims to reward innovation and good practice in urban street design schemes undertaken by, or in partnership with, local authorities.
Laura Sharman, editor of Local Government News, said: "The Whitley Bay play site is a worthy winner of this award as the council has been very imaginative and innovative in its choice of play equipment and facilities.
"Rather than fall into the usual trap of specifying safe but dull equipment, it has really considered the needs of local children and the community as a whole.
"The project sets a high standard for further regeneration work in the area and should inspire other local authorities looking to improve their children's play facilities."
More than 500 pupils from local first, middle and high schools were involved in helping design the 300,000 play site, which was inspired by North Tyneside Council's design agency with work carried out by its construction group.
The new facility aims to cater for toddlers to teenagers, featuring a showpiece sand pit with pirate ship and diggers as well as a range of climbing and swing equipment.
Mayor John Harrison said: "This is a fantastic accolade for us to receive.
"This award is a tribute to the expertise of our design and construction team but also to the hundreds of children who worked with us to share their ideas and views on what makes a great children's play site."
Design work is now underway on phase two, to improve visitor attractions within the park as well as environmental improvements such as new pathways, planting and new seating.
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Weather for Whitley Bay
Thursday 24 May 2012
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 9 C to 20 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North east
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Temperature: 8 C to 19 C
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