A COMMUNITY group has plans to create a £50,000 new play park for young children.

North Walney Tenants and Residents’ Association wants to redevelop a playground area in James Dunn Park, known locally as Vickerstown Park.

At the moment the existing area for toddlers and under eights has two old swings and a climbing frame and slide unit.

The group has already raised £5,000 through events such as Walney Gala and it is now working to generate the rest of the money needed for the plan. The committee is now starting to work with Margaret Burrow, founder of Barrow and District Disability Association for advice on fundraising.

The pupils of Walney’s Vickerstown Primary School, George Hastwell Special School and North Walney Primary School have been asked to contribute their ideas for what they would like to see in the play park.

Their suggestions for various swings and activities areas have been shared with the companies who would bid to develop the park.

Stephen Thornton, chairman of North Walney Tenants and Residents’ Association, said: “The play park in Vickerstown Park is out of date and wants revamping.

It is important to have this to get the kids out of the house and away from electronic devises, it is fresh air and traditional play, but there is a lack of amenities here.

“We have 100 forms from members of the community saying they want more here for the toddlers and under eights. It was also important for us to get the ideas for the children for what they would like to see in a park. Margaret was impressed with what we have done up to date and is supporting us.”

Mr Thornton pointed out that South Walney has around four play park areas, where as North Walney has just the one area in Vickerstown Park, which also includes play equipment for older children.

The new park would be maintained by Barrow Borough Council as the park is now. Members of the North community are urged to contact Mr Thornton to add their support to the plan.

They can do so by emailing him at thornton22@talktalk.net  or calling him on 07856 753482 for a support form.