Brand-new play areas coming to Torridge after £210,000 upgrade

Four play areas across Torridge are set to benefit from £210,000 worth of refurbishment works, the council has announced.

Torridge District Council said the improvements will take place in East-the-Water, Bideford; Hartland; and Winkleigh during February and March 2026, with the aim of creating more modern, interactive, and usable spaces for local children and families.

At Pollyfield in East-the-Water, Bideford, the council is working with the Pollyfield Community Centre to refurbish the infant play area. 

The centre and local councillors have supported the project through fundraising events, alongside S106 housing development funds and a council contribution, to ensure the play space meets the needs of the community. 

Local installer TK Play is due to start work on Monday 23 February.

The selection of Pollyfield for refurbishment reflects the community’s active involvement in improving play facilities. 

Local councillors and the Pollyfield Community Centre helped identify the area as a priority and contributed to decisions on design and equipment. 

The council said the aim is to provide a space that encourages physical activity, social interaction, and imaginative play for children in the neighbourhood.

In Winkleigh, Elms Meadow will undergo a full refurbishment, receiving all new equipment following consultations with councillors and parents. 

Westcotts Drive will also gain a new multi-unit with surfacing and a new bench. 

Wicksteed Limited is scheduled to begin work on 2 March. 

These sites are being funded through the Government’s Rural England Prosperity Fund, which supports projects to improve rural communities.

Hartland’s Northgate Play Area will also receive a significant upgrade, with Kompan Ltd due on site from 23 February.

Local councillors, Hartland Recreation Ground representatives, and parents were all consulted before the final design was agreed. 

The council said this ensures that the improvements reflect the needs of children and families in Hartland and create a play area that will be enjoyed for years to come.

The council emphasised that the refurbishments are part of a wider commitment to improving play spaces across Torridge.

For safety, all play areas will be closed while work is carried out. 

Weather permitting, the council expects the refurbishments to be completed in time for the Easter holidays.

Councillor Lyndon Piper, Lead Member for Leisure at Torridge District Council, said: “I’m very excited to see the new and modern changes that the refurbishments will bring to the play areas. Playgrounds are vital for children’s development, encouraging physical activity, social interaction, and imaginative play – so I hope these playgrounds will be enjoyed by many children and families for years to come.”

The council said it hopes the upgrades will provide safe and welcoming spaces for children to play while strengthening community connections in each area.