Playground extension plans approved by St Helens planning committee

St Helens Council’s application to extend the site at St Johns Playground, on St John Street, came before the council’s planning committee on Tuesday.

It is in the Newton-le-Willows West ward.

It also comprised the installation of new play equipment, boundary fencing, safety surfacing and hardstanding footpaths.

It was approved subject to conditions, with authority delegated to the head of planning services to “add, remove or amend conditions as they deem necessary”.

Trevor Nicoll, director of operations at the council, said the proposal represents an “important opportunity” to improve play provision close to Earlestown town centre.

“Huge amounts of community engagement has been undertaken prior to developing this scheme,” he added.

“St Helens Council officers have been out to actually speak with young people and families very much locally to find out what they’re looking for and what kind of facilities they would require.

“We really feel that [with] the scheme we’re developing is something that’s been sort of asked for by local people and children and will benefit them as that comes forward.”

According to a report to the committee, the application site is located within the grounds of St Johns Playground, identified as open space in the St Helens Local Plan. The existing play area is centrally positioned within the site and accommodates playground equipment across an area of approximately 380 sq m.

It said: “The application is for the extension of the existing playground, along with the installation of new play equipment, boundary fencing, safety surfacing and hardstanding footpaths.”

Furthermore, it stated the proposed development seeks to upgrade the existing playground by extending the footprint up to approximately 800 sq m to deliver the installation of a dedicated inclusive playground with 100 plus features and to facilitate the capacity of up to 80 users between ages 2-14.

“The redesigned playground is themed around the area’s local heritage, with features reflecting the historic Sankey Canal and local train/locomotive history,” it added.

“Overall, the proposal seeks to enhance the quality, accessibility and inclusivity of the existing playground, providing modern recreational facilities and maintaining the site’s role as a valuable community asset.”