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Oxborough's long-awaited play area is opened




Villagers, councillors and most importantly, lots of children, turned out in force to see South-West Norfolk MP Liz Truss officially open Oxborough's new play area.

Parish council chairman, Simon Willies, said: “The play area creates a safe place where children can meet up, express themselves and enjoy playing outdoors. A great big thank you to everyone involved in the project.”

Susan Fernandez, parish clerk for the last 20 years, described it as a “most significant contribution to the village”.

South West Norfolk MP and Secretary of State Liz Truss officially opens Oxborough play area
South West Norfolk MP and Secretary of State Liz Truss officially opens Oxborough play area

And a local resident said it was “nice and refreshing to hear children enjoying themselves in the play area”.

The council had faced a number of hurdles to get to this point. Around two years ago, former parish council vice-chairman Paul Gilluley came up with the idea of a play area and put together a formal proposal and secured funding.

But there were drawbacks including funding issues, council resignations, the enforcement of a restrictive covenant by Oxborough Farms Ltd (former owners of the village green land) and the COVID 19 pandemic.

Cutting the ribbon to open the play area
Cutting the ribbon to open the play area

The parish council had to seek legal advice to resolve the covenant issue but, finally, it got the green light and the play area was completed a few weeks ago.

Mr Willies added: "It is pleasing that finally the play area project has come to fruition especially after the challenges and struggles we have been through. I like to think we have come out even stronger as a council ready for the new challenges ahead.”

Guests who watched the unveiling of the plaque and official opening on Friday included past and present councillors, District Councillor Mike Nairn and Norfolk County Councillor Fabian Eagle.

Children were quick to try out the equipment after Friday's opening
Children were quick to try out the equipment after Friday's opening
Oxborough play area was soon busy
Oxborough play area was soon busy
Open at last - Oxborough play area
Open at last - Oxborough play area


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