Marbury Park’s new year good news

Cheshire West and Chester Council has received some new year good news, it has obtained funding for a wheelchair swing at Marbury Country Park.

The Council is committed to promoting inclusive play, it has attended Parent Carer Forums and continues to listen and work with local residents, and parents.    

The Council also approached PiPA PLAY (Plan Inclusive Play Areas) the social enterprise company created to ensure play areas are inclusive.  PiPA PLAY worked with the Council to review a selection of key Council-managed play areas. 

The review looked at how best to improve inclusive play, together with assessing the suitability of the play areas for wheelchair swings.  

A key recommendation from PiPA was that the play area at Marbury Park could be considered for a wheelchair swing.

Marbury was considered the most appropriate location for the wheelchair swing due to its recently installed all-inclusive children’s play area, adjacent Changing Places facility and extensive parking.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, Councillor Adam Langan said:

“We’re delighted to receive this funding and it is very exciting news for Marbury Park.  This is going to be a much-loved piece of equipment for many young wheelchair users.

“A wheelchair swing has many benefits.  It gives young wheelchair users an understanding of our world and our space from a different perspective, making them more aware of their surroundings, increases blood flow to the brain creating a better environment for focus and attention, and the endorphins triggered can really boost their mood.  

“Of course, it also provides the perfect opportunity for parents and carers to spend quality time with their child.”

INEOS Inovyn’s UK Country & Operations Manager, Nigel Bouckley said:

“We have a good working relationship with Marbury Park and like to help with their projects whenever possible, so our decision to support this was an easy one.

“The new wheelchair swing will help provide inclusivity and expand access across the community. We very much look forward to seeing this project completed.”