Merton Council will officially launch its new improved play areas at a ribbon cutting ceremony at Lavender Park on Wednesday 20 August.

As part of a successful bid for £401, 834 from the Big Lottery Fund, Merton will launch its Extending Free Play projects, which serve to improve and extend play opportunities for children and young people.

£180,000 of the lottery money has been invested in refurbishing three play areas, Lavender Park, Ravensbury Park and Long Bolstead Recreation Ground, which will be opened to children and young people so they can enjoy playing in supervised and safe open spaces. A new BMX/Skateboard space will also be opened next year at Pollards Hill Recreation Ground.

Cabinet Member for Children’s Services and Merton’s Play Champion, Cllr Debbie Shears said, “I am delighted to launch Merton’s improved play areas. Places like these are very important for the health and happiness of young people in the borough.”

Cabinet Member for the Environment, Cllr David Simpson said, ‘The opening of the new improved play areas is a wonderful opportunity for the children and young people of Merton. We are committed to putting their needs first by providing outdoor spaces where children can play safely and have fun with their friends.’