The redeveloped play area at Gatty Park has officially reopened, marking the completion of a £140,000 project to replace equipment that was more than 15 years old with modern facilities designed for children of all ages and abilities.
The funding for the refurbishment came from a £40,000 grant from FCC Communities Foundation, £30,000 from the Lancashire Environmental Fund, and £70,000 of Council investment. The Mayor of Hyndburn expressed gratitude to everyone involved in bringing the much-loved play area back to life.
Further play area improvements planned
These works are just the beginning, with several other projects scheduled. Works at Harwood Road Recreation Ground in Rishton and Windsor Road in Great Harwood are due to commence in September 2026, funded by the UK Government Pride in Place Impact Fund.
Peel Park and Burnley Road Recreation Ground will follow later this year, with the latter supported by the Clayton and Altham Prospect Panel with funding from various sources including FCC Communities, Pride in Place Impact Funding, Lancashire Environmental Fund, and Awards for All.
Eagle Street Skate Park consultation and future projects
Eagle Street Skate Park is earmarked for a major overhaul and will shortly go out to public consultation, giving young people and potential users an opportunity to have their say on its future.
Designs are also progressing for a play area around Bradshaw Street, supported with funding from LCC and Play4Uz2, improvements to Oak Hill Park and Highams play areas funded by MHCLG, and a new MUGA in Great Harwood. Works on these projects are planned to be staggered throughout 2027.
Summer events in Hyndburn parks
This week, Milnshaw Park will host an event as part of the fifth year of the Let's Move Hyndburn summer park events, following the programme's successful launch at Mercer Park in July. On Friday, August 14, from 11am to 3pm, residents will find a full day of activities, including a climbing wall, archery, dance sessions, sport activities and more.
On Saturday, August 15, from 10am to 3pm, Accrington town centre will host Accrington Youth Fest and the Teenage Market, featuring BMX, a pop-up skate park, climbing wall, art activities, live performances and more.
Future council changes
From April 2028, four new unitary councils are proposed to replace the current 15 councils in Lancashire, subject to parliamentary approval. For now, there are no immediate changes to day-to-day services. The council will keep sharing updates and explaining what happens next as plans develop.
