2011 - Bushmead Play Area

The catalyst for the new play area came from a local resident, Donna Nepali. Donna arranged a meeting with our local MP Kelvin Hopkins where she spoke with passion about the need for decent play facilities on the Bushmead estate. Kelvin wrote to Luton Borough Council. A council officer then met with Donna to discuss and advise on how to proceed.

Donna got a group of local parents together and formed the Bushmead Play Project. The steering group organised a petition which raised nearly 1,000 signatures, which she took to Luton Borough Council’s Area Committee and won £5k to employ Groundwork's to complete a feasibility study in the area. Questionnaires were sent through Bushmead and Warden Hills Schools and after consultation with the local community the redevelopment of the community centre play area was highlighted as a top priority.

Heather James from Community Development Service (Luton Borough Council) also used this feasibility study to apply for funding streams and was successful with WREN who awarded us £42,500. Also Community Development Service (Luton Borough Council) who awarded us £7,500.

Three companies applied to carry out the works. HAGs won the contract with a traditional, yet innovative design.

Work started on the site at the beginning of September. We were most impressed with the commitment, professionalism and hard work of the contractors involved. RSG were the installation team and RTC applied the wetpour. The lines of communication between ourselves and HAGS were first class; in particular Steve Harrison, Contact Installation Manager and Peter Faulkner, Area Sales Manager. We were kept informed at every part of the build process and because of HAGS’ high level of professionalism and customer service ethics, we have awarded them a new contract to deliver another new play facility for Bushmead.

HAGS have supplied us with a fantastic innovative new play area that is both challenging and fun, whilst  meeting our community needs.  

Sean Manning

Community Development Officer

Luton Borough Council