Exeter City Council confirms more than £1m invested in city’s play areas

Exeter City Council has revealed it has invested more than £1 million into improving the city's play areas over the past six years.

New figures show that since 2019, the council has directed a total of £1.2m into a rolling programme of repairs, replacements, and facility upgrades across more than 60 sites.

The council, which is responsible for maintaining over 80 play facilities, said the funding had been split between day-to-day maintenance and larger capital projects.

According to the data:

• £611,000 has been delivered through the Play Area Capital Programme for new equipment and installations.

• £557,000 has been spent on item replacements, repairs, and minor refurbishments.

• £41,000 has been dedicated to the maintenance of the St Thomas Splash Pad.

Among the major projects completed last year was the revamp of the Exwick Station Road play area.

Cllr Ruth Williams, Lead Councillor for City Development, described the facilities as "really important" for local communities.

"They provide great entertainment for children and are perfect for healthy, outdoor activities for a range of ages," she said. "They are also much-loved by parents because they provide free and fun play equipment close to where families live."

"We have brilliant parks and green spaces in Exeter... They are part of what makes Exeter special," she added. "Our rolling programme of repairs and improvements helps to ensure that the city’s play areas will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come."

The city council has confirmed that funding is already in place to continue the improvement programme over the next two years. Additionally, resources have been set aside for the future enhancement of the Heavitree paddling pool and play area.

Exeter currently boasts more than 250 acres of public open space, which accounts for 9.5% of the city’s total area.