Lottery boost for children's recreation

8:52am Wednesday 21st February 2007

Two new children's play projects have been given a boost from a £200,000 Lottery grant.

A USA-style skatepark planned for the Ham recreation area in Shoreham will receive £135,000.

More than 40 local skateboarders and BMX bikers have been involved in designing the project and looking at ways to improve access.

The young people have been working with Adur District Council and an application for planning permission is expected soon.

Shadwells Park in Lancing has been given £65,000 towards a new children's play area expected to open this summer.

Local people again had an input, with Mash Barn Residents' Association working with Adur on the project.

The bid to the Big Lottery Fund was made after the council's play strategy highlighted a need for more facilities.

Council leader Neil Parkin said: "As a father myself I am thrilled we have got this money to spend on providing new facilities for children and young people."

The money is part of a national £12 million investment into children's play areas.

Brighton and Hove will share £500,000 between five projects in Ovingdean, Portslade, Whitehawk and the Tarner estate area.