Families in Chepstow can now enjoy a modernised community space after a major improvement project reached completion at Castle Dell. Monmouthshire County Council, Friends of Dell Park Chepstow, and Chepstow Town Council worked together to upgrade the site.
New Equipment and Accessibility Upgrades
Old equipment that had been in place since the 1960s has been replaced to give local children better things to do. Repairs were also made to a nearby wall, while steps and footpaths were fixed to make access easier for disabled people.
The project was funded by grants from Chepstow Town Council, the National Lottery Community Fund, and the Transforming Towns Programme. Voluntary parents first began championing improvements to the area in 2016 by gathering ideas from local families.
Council and Community Praise
Monmouthshire County Council cabinet member for equalities and engagement, Cllr Angela Sandles, said: “This fantastic new play area is the result of years of commitment, collaboration and community spirit. I would like to thank the Friends of Dell Park Chepstow, Chepstow Town Council, our partners and council teams who have helped bring this vision to life.”
She added: “Castle Dell is a much-loved community space, and these improvements will ensure children and families can enjoy a safe, accessible and exciting place to play for many years to come. It is a great example of what can be achieved when communities and public services work together.”
Mayor and Volunteer Group Reactions
Cllr Vanessa Badderley-Potter, mayor of Chepstow, commented: "Today should be all about The Friends of the Dell and their indomitable spirit." She continued: "As a town council, we're delighted to have worked in partnership on this project and to contribute towards its delivery. This exciting new play area will bring enjoyment to generations of children while encouraging more families to visit and spend time in Chepstow town centre."
Vicky Burston-Yates, chair of Friends of Dell Park, Chepstow, said: “Seeing the park filled with children playing and families spending time together is everything we hoped for when this journey began 10 years ago. This project has always been about breathing new life into a much-loved community space and creating somewhere that brings people together, encourages play and can be enjoyed for generations to come.”
She added: “On behalf of our small volunteer group, I'd like to thank The National Lottery Community Fund, Monmouthshire County Council and Chepstow Town Council for believing in our vision and helping to make it a reality. We are also incredibly grateful to the local community for supporting us every step of the way.”
The completed project delivers a safe and accessible play area for children and families, with the collaboration of local authorities and community groups ensuring the space will serve future generations.
