Give us a new play area, demand Littlemore kids (From Oxford Mail)

Give us a new play area, demand Littlemore kids

11:40am Saturday 28th August 2010 in News By Dan Hearn

YOUNG people in Littlemore do not believe enough is done for them on the estate, a new survey has found.

More than 87 per cent of 189 schoolchildren polled feel the area does not have adequate provision for them.

And even more said they would like to a new sports area.

The survey, commissioned by Littlemore Parish Council, comes as community leaders prepare to secure funding for an all-weather sports facility on the estate.

The money would pay for a street sportscage – a large ‘caged’ area suitable for playing football, netball and basketball – at the Oxford Road recreation ground.

The council has committed £5,000 towards the scheme, and last year Oxford City Council promised £10,000. The parish council will apply for a £60,000 grant from Wren (Wastes Recycling Environment).

The Rev Margreet Armitstead, vicar of SS Mary and Nicholas Church, backed the appeal.

She said: “It would be fantastic for the Littlemore community if the youngsters had somewhere they could be together.”

Teacher and parish councillor David Henwood said: “The responses from the questionnaire prove an overwhelming evidence to improve the facilities for youths in Littlemore.

“We will also improve the area for other age groups to create a socially inclusive recreation ground.”

Ann Mogridge, chairman of Littlemore Parish Council, added: “Over the past two years we have been working hard to introduce play schemes for young people, which have proven very successful with local residents.

“This street sportscage will also meet the needs of deserving young people in the area, by providing a safe and secure area for young residents.”

The formal application will be made on September 1.