Four playgrounds in Blaenau Gwent, including two in Brynmawr, have been given a new lease of life just in time for the summer holidays.

The play areas at Brynawel and the Recreation Ground in Brynmawr are open and ready to be enjoyed by local families while those on Newtown and Pennant Street, in Ebbw Vale, are almost ready. The final touches are being put on both of them!

The completion of the work has been welcomed by the councillor responsible for Children, Young People and families.

“I’m delighted that these parks have been refurbished and are open for children and young people in these communities to enjoy,” Cllr Sue Edmunds said.

“Our priority is to give every child the best start in life. Play is so important for the development of cognitive, physical, social, and emotional skills and this helps to ensure children have safe, fun, and inclusive spaces to enjoy for years to come.”

All the work has has been carried out by Wicksteed, a UK-based company with over a century of experience in building playgrounds for local communities.

In several areas, parks are also maintained and supported by local community groups. Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council says it has been working “collaboratively” with these groups to help secure the funding and source suitable equipment for the project. It forms part of the council’s new ‘Deal’ - a social contract and collaborative working model between Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council, local residents, and community partners.

The Council is currently developing a new Play Strategy for Blaenau Gwent and is considering feedback from the community about their local play facilities.

Elsewhere, in Abergavenny, the new group, Friends of Union Road Playground, has been set up to meet this purpose. Read more about their efforts by clicking here.