Shaftesbury’s Maple Road play area ready for fun this summer

Families in Shaftesbury can finally enjoy the new Maple Road Play Area, which will officially open on Friday 8 August.

The play area is part of the housing development on the land east of Shaftesbury and was built by Persimmon Homes. Unfortunately, it couldn’t open as planned due to a few issues.

But, thanks to teamwork between Dorset Council, Shaftesbury Town Council, and Persimmon Homes, those issues have now been addressed. The play equipment has been moved to a better spot, the area has passed all safety checks, and will now be open for use.

Dorset Councillor Jack Jeanes said,

“We know how frustrating the delay has been for local families.  We’re really pleased to see the play area ready for action and hope it brings lots of joy to the community. I am so happy that there is now another space to allow imaginations to run free, friendships to blossom, and for children to have a safe place to play."

To celebrate the opening, Persimmon Homes will be treating visitors to free ice creams from an ice cream van between 3pm and 4pm on the afternoon of the launch.

Greg Williams, Shaftesbury Deputy Mayor and Shaftesbury East ward councillor, said:

“We’re delighted this playground is finally open. Shaftesbury Town Council’s commitment to manage the park has proved the key to unlock this years old problem. I’d like to thank all our staff and councillors who have made this possible, particularly our caretakers and groundskeepers who repaired and cleaned it all up, ready for opening.”

For now, Persimmon Homes will continue to look after the play area and surrounding open space. In the coming months, ownership will transfer to Shaftesbury Town Council, who will then be responsible for its upkeep.

Gary Biggs, Technical Director at Persimmon Homes South Coast added:

“We’re proud to have delivered this play area and are glad it’s now ready for local families to enjoy. We hope it becomes a much-loved feature for the whole community.”

Earlier this year, tree planting also took place around the site, helping to enhance the area’s green space and create a more attractive environment for everyone to enjoy.

In responding to the needs of the community, Dorset Council, Shaftesbury Town Council, and Persimmon Homes have worked together to create a positive outcome for local families.