Let's face it – our children's play area on Gaulby Road has seen better days. After many years without a major update, it's definitely showing its age! While safety checks keep it technically "safe," ask any local child and they'll tell you it could use some serious TLC.
Currently, the playground primarily caters for younger children, with limited options for older kids. Other villages locally have made dramatic improvements to the equipment available, with a big climbing frame, slide and zip line at Tugby and a raft of fun apparatus at Great Glen and Houghton. Now is the time to act!
We are hoping to raise £25,000 to transform this community space. Some grant funding will be available from Harborough District Council but extra funding needs to be found. Local school children have been consulted about the improvements they would like to see, and their suggestions include additional swings, a zip line, spinners, and a ground-level trampoline. They would like to see existing climbing frames, slides, and outdoor gym equipment to be refreshed too.
These enhancements will bring our playground facilities in line with those in neighbouring villages, creating an inclusive space where children of all ages and abilities can enjoy outdoor play together. With its convenient location next to the school on Gaulby Road, and easy access for families, we’d like to see some more benches and picnic tables to cater for accompanying adults on the regular visits after school.
By supporting our fundraising efforts at this year's fete, you will be contributing directly to our community's future. Each donation helps us move closer to creating a playground that serves all of Billesdon's children—a place where the next generation can develop, exercise, and create lasting memories.