A group of residents in Farsley are launching a fundraiser to build a new playground in historic Hainsworth Park.
The Friends of Hainsworth Park is a community group aimed at improving people’s enjoyment of the popular park, which celebrates its centenary this year – and is hoping to raise £15,000 to improve the area.
It aims to build a natural landscaped play area for physical and adventurous play next to the existing playpark.
Equipment could include a climbing frame, trim trails, wobble boards, a junior basket swing and stepping stones, as well as a path through the centre. The area would be grassed and raised slightly to avoid becoming waterlogged.
Sarah Cropley, from the Friends of Hainsworth Park said:
“In these times we all understand the importance of outside space to help improve physical and mental health, this is a chance to celebrate the centenary of Hainsworth Park and make it even better for our community.
“The FOHP have raised over £30,000 in funding so far and are really grateful for the support we have received from our local councillors this crowdfunding campaign will improve the equipment we’re able to add to the park when it is built later this year.
“We are fundraising so we can include as much of the play equipment as possible. Unfortunately in these difficult times, there is little government or council funding spare, so if we want improvements made to our area, it’s up to us as residents.”
The group’s already received £30,000 so far through a variety of grants towards the project.
The fundraiser had an launch last night via live video chat and has already raised £700.
Farsley resident Amber Rigby added her support. She said:
“Really support this project, the park has been needing the love it deserves for a few years and it will be great to get this in while my kids can still enjoy it. Keep going!”
And Sharon Blackburn added:
“It’s great to see that the playground is to be improved for future generations to come. Look forward to seeing it in use.”
You can donate to the crowdfunder – and find more information – here.
The Friends group is also welcoming new members, particularly anyone who can help with their crowdfunding campaign. The Friends can be reached via Facebook here or via e-mail on: friendsofhainsworthpark@gmail.com.
The Friends group comes under the umbrella of the Farsley Community Initiative, which also supports Farsley Festival, Farsley Community Orchard and Farsley Farmers Market.
2021 marks 100 years since Hainsworth Park was given to the people of Farsley by the Hainsworth family for ‘playing fields and use of unorganised games particularly for young people’.