Play areas to be transformed thanks to £80k UKSPF money

Work is due to start this month on two play areas in Derbyshire, transforming them into stunning new spaces for youngsters and their families to enjoy.

Following public consultations by North East Derbyshire District Council, the Sharley Park and Clay Lane play areas in Clay Cross will be modernised and renovated with a range of new equipment – supported by funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) via the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “High-quality play areas are a vital part of creating places where families want to live and spend time. They give children the space to be active, social and imaginative, while offering parents and carers welcoming, safe environments close to home.

“Through the UKSPF, we were able to invest in play spaces that are modern, inclusive and designed for a range of ages. Projects like this one in Clay Cross show how targeted local investment can make a real difference to everyday life, improving facilities that are used and valued by the community.

“By improving outdoor spaces and play areas, we are helping to boost pride in place and support healthier, more connected communities. These improvements are about more than new equipment – they are an investment in children’s wellbeing and in the long-term appeal and sustainability of our towns and villages.”

At Sharley Park, work will modernise the site with new equipment, including swings, a climbing frame with slide, roundabout, and equipment for active play, alongside additional seating.

The play area has received £78,900 from the UK Government and EMCCA through the UKSPF for the project.

At Clay Lane, the site will be modernised with new equipment, including swings, climbing frame and a slide, equipment for active play, seating/picnic areas, and football equipment.

The project will cost £47,295, which includes £3,993.53 from the UK Government and EMCCA through the UKSPF and £43,301.47 from developers behind two recent housing developments.

Equipment at both sites will be suitable for use by a variety of ages.

‘I hope these play areas will be put to good use’

Councillor Nigel Barker, council leader, said: “It’s important in this ever-growing technological age that children are still given access to outdoor spaces, giving them opportunities to socialise, enjoy the fresh air and use their imagination through play. 

“I hope these play areas will be put to good use by children, their families and friends for many years to come.” 

Works are planned to start this month – see www.ne-derbyshire.gov.uk for updates.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is providing £25.17 million of funding for local investment across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire in 2025/26. This funding, distributed by EMCCA, aims to boost pride in place and increase life chances in the region. The investment will focus on supporting communities and businesses, as well as developing skills for individuals.