Children and families can now enjoy the brand-new play fort at The Look Out Discovery Centre, which opened last Friday.
The previous fort had reached the end of its life and could no longer be sustainably repaired. A full replacement was needed to ensure this well-loved attraction could continue to be enjoyed by visitors.
The refreshed design retains some of the most popular features of the old fort, while adding new and exciting features. These include more towers, a climbing wall, slide and tunnel. The play space remains suitable for children aged 7 to 11.
The new play fort was supplied and installed by specialist playground company Creative Play. It is designed to support active and imaginative play and helps children to build confidence and physical skills.
Visitors can enjoy the new play fort during usual opening hours, which are available on The Look Out Discovery Centre’s website.
Cllr Gillbe, cabinet member for planning, transport and countryside, said:
"I would like to thank everyone involved in this project for their prompt and efficient work, and for their efforts to minimise disruption to our residents.
"We’re delighted to provide this upgraded facility, which offers children an improved space to play, explore and stay active.
"The previous play fort had served our community well but had reached the end of its life. It wasn’t practical or cost effective for us to keep replacing individual parts.
"Rebuilding it now and making it more robust, ensures this much loved play space remains modern and enjoyable for years to come."
Header image shows the Look Out Discovery Centre team and council colleagues, preparing to cut the ribbon to open the new play fort.
From left to right is Aden Kelly, building surveyor; Julia Inglis-Taylor, exhibition manager; Cllr Gillbe, cabinet member for planning, transport and countryside; Mark Croll, facilities manager; and Stephen Chown, head of natural estates.
