A Yeovil community has been putting down roots at a new play area in the town.
Residents rolled up their sleeves and got digging for a day of tree planting at a new children’s facility at King Arthur Drive.
Around 20 volunteers planted trees and hedging including 15 Scots Pines, 300 Beech and 70 Holy trees.
The tree planting day was heralded a success by South Somerset District Council, which teamed up with Brympton Parish Council, Knightstone Housing Association, Yarlington Housing Group and the local police community support officer to bring the project to life.
The new play area is designed to provide a challenging and fun environment for young people and will feature a range of new equipment including a zip line, a toddler and junior climbing frame, a basket swing as well as a new footpath and seating.
Robert Parr, senior play and youth facilities officer at South Somerset District Council, said: “Overall the planting day was extremely successful as it enabled local people to get involved with improving their own environment.
“The volunteers included both young and older people making it an intergenerational event. This exciting project has been made possible through partnership working between the district council and other local groups.”
The new trees and hedging are intended to enhance the landscape of the new play area, providing some screening of the site from nearby properties.
They will also help to define the boundary, reduce the risk of children running from the play area on to Merlin Close and improve the wildlife habitat in the park.
Councillor Sylvia Seal, portfolio holder for leisure and culture at the district council, said: “The area has undergone a stunning transformation and it’s good to see the local community getting so involved.
“This can only help local residents feel a sense of ownership towards the park. As time goes by they will be able to see the trees and hedges grow into maturity, providing a legacy for future generations to enjoy.”
Our support for this project is part of South Somerset District Council’s ongoing work to increase and improve play opportunities for children in the district.”
