A PLAY area that was forced to close almost four years ago following a series of serious vandalism incidents has finally re-opened.
The much-loved Brentnall “Boat Park” at Hood Manor is back in business after a long-running campaign by local councillors Amanda King and Mo Hussain, working with Your Housing.
Cllr King said: “The Boat Park was originally built by the local residents association then handed to Your Housing to maintain.
“Unfortunately due to serious vandalism, the park closed and the bill to reopen was close to £70,000. I worked with Your Housing and Great Sankey Parish Council to gain support and funding.
“This started with a high-level fence that was installed in 2021 – 2022 to stop anti-social behaviour, then an installation of a new floor and play equipment in 2022 and 2023. There have been many delays with contractors over the years but finally the park is open.
“ It is the greatest joy to see the children laughing and enjoying the park. We also have seven park wardens in place to open and close the park morning and evening. Today we gave out Easter eggs kindly donated by One Stop shop and Your Housing and our local community are very pleased. I am delighted to have been able to bring this park back into operation for the local children to enjoy’.
Cllr Hussain said: “The Boat Park has been such an integral part of our community in Hood Manor and Great Sankey for many years and local residents have fond memories of the park in its many forms.
“I am delighted to see the boat park restored to its original beauty and it’s wonderful to see smiles and laughter on the children’s faces as we celebrate this opening and may the park be enjoyed for many generations to come”
Cllr Peter Watson added: ‘The parish council is very happy to be celebrating the opening of this much-loved park and value the work from our local councillors and Your Housing to ensure the reopening of this community asset. We will open discussions to consider the future of the park and the parish council has made a small donation to ensure the final steps could be completed and the park re-opened for the Easter weekend.”
