MP welcomes Hallgarth play area funding

South Lakes MP Tim Farron is congratulating local councillors Rob Boden and Matthew Severn for their work in securing £26,000 for the long running campaign to bring play equipment back to the Hallgarth estate in Kendal.

Play equipment was removed from Acre Moss Lane after it was deemed unsafe. Last year, councillor Rob Boden launched a fundraising drive at a public meeting after there was no new play equipment replaced it, meaning young people on the estate were left with no facilities.

Tim has offered his help with the fundraising drive for new play equipment. Rob has got the support of South Lakeland District Council, South Lakes Housing and Home Housing and has also applied to Kendal Town Council for a grant. Today the council announced £26,000 of funding for the play area.

Tim said: "When I hold my regular surgeries on the estate I always saw that the play area was well used - but since the equipment was removed it has left local children without a vital facility. In all of my youth surveys they tell me that play areas are what people want - being able to secure this money will make a massive difference.

"I want to congratulate Rob Boden and Matt Severn and the team of local residents for securing this funding and we will not stop working on this until the play area is finished."

Local councillor Matthew Severn added: "Local children have been crying out for new play equipment and it was a top issue for their parents too. Its fantastic news that this team effort means that they will now get the great playground they deserve!"