New playpark unveiled in Bedlington

29 Jul 2019 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news

A new £80,000 play area has been opened at Gallagher Park in Bedlington.

It’s the latest development in a number of improvement projects at the park over the last few years that has seen the construction of a BMX track, downhill mountain bike trails, a new sports and community pavilion and promoted walking routes.  

The creation of the new play was funded through the County Council's Parks Enhancement Programme along with county councillors Bill Crosby, Russ Wallace and Jeff Gobin. Other funding contributions came from the Friends of Gallagher Park and West Bedlington Town Council.

Earlier this year the Council’s Cabinet agreed spending of over £200,000 towards the total of £287,000 on improvement projects at five of the county’s parks.

Gallagher Park is an extremely popular local amenity, and as well as the sporting facilities is home to woodlands, wildflower meadows and large green spaces.

As well as the new play area, further improvements are in the pipeline. The local cycle club are currently raising funds to develop the BMX track and the Friends group are about to carry out some woodland management on the hill to improve views out over the surrounding countryside.

Councillor Glen Sanderson, Cabinet Member for Environment and Local Services, said: “This is a lovely Park with woodland walks and great playing fields but the play area was very run down. 

“We’re delighted to have this brand new facility open just in time for the summer holidays and with the current spell of hot weather it’s perfect for youngsters to come along and enjoy.

“Our parks are focal points for local communities of all ages and we’ve worked closely with ward members, the Friends group and the local town council to ensure a first class play area here for generations to come.”