Story:Akeel Khan | Photo: Lisa Swift
In October, Sheffield City Council shut Pitsmoor Adventure Playground, stating there were health and safety issues. Playground user Akeel Khan (aged 12) writes about the situation.
I have been using the playground for over 5 years and I feel it is my responsibility to keep it open. Unfortunately, over the last month Pitsmoor Adventure Playground has been shut due to health and safety reasons, which is ironic because the playground hasn't had any problems with injuries or such in a long time.
I blame the Council because when I wrote to the cabinet member they said they will get everything sorted and they are trying their best. It is a load of rubbish because myself and the user group have worked really hard for this playground and the Council have been putting us down.
It has affected a lot of youngsters who come to the playground including me and has had a big influence on a lot of people who may not feel safe.
I contacted the Council to ask why nothing had been done to fix the problems that were causing the playground to be closed. Cabinet member Isobel Bowler told me it was going to take longer than they expected. They said they are working on a plan to make the playground safe and back open again. I feel absolutely devastated and will do everything I can to keep the playground open.
Council agrees plan to reopen playground
After Akeel contacted the Council, they agreed to start work on repairs following an agreement for Pitsmoor Adventure Playground User Group to take on running the playground from April. The playground will be reopened before Christmas.
Between now and April the User Group is paying for the staffing of the playground (partly by the Council), with the support of Ellesmere Youth Project. Once open the playground will be open 3 days a week. From April the Council have promised to pay for the building costs for 3 years. The User Group will be creating an incorporated charity to take on the responsibility of running the playground. If you would like to be involved email pitsmooradventure@yahoo.co.uk
Christmas Party at the Playground, 21st December. The event will include music, games and presents. Look out for flyers and posters for details