A community group has pleaded for £150,000 to fund a new playground.
Fans of Lowndes Park in Chesham have geared up their fundraising efforts to pay for a major revamp of the park’s “outdated” play area.
Now Love Lowndes, a volunteer group made of parents and residents campaigning for the makeover, have launched a promotional film to help reach their goal that would turn the playground into a “destination” for families.
Mum Claire Wyatt, a member of Love Lowndes, said that “Chesham’s green heart” is in a “desperate need” of a new playground.
“We are a thriving community with loads of energy and cultural events, and yet our playground really lets us down. It’s not a destination playground.”
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In the promotional film, a child tells the camera the park equipment is in “really bad condition.”
“My wishlist for the park is adding monkey bars and adding a lot more things for older children. I don’t feel worried but I feel a bit disappointed in the town,” she said.
A wheelchair user said she struggles to use the park entrances because they are slightly sloped, forcing her to find another entrance further away or ask for help from someone.
So far the project, which is run by Friends of Lowndes Park in partnership with Chesham Town Council, has raised more than £40,000 of the £150,000 target, which is the "minimum" needed.
The playground makeover is part of the new Masterplan for Lowndes Park launched by Chesham Town Council, aiming to improve the historic green space for all residents.
Love Lowndes said that although £150,000 is "a lot of money," it doesn't "go far" with cost of flooring, surfaces, infrastructure, design and play equipment, which can cost around £30,000 for a basic climbing frame, the group warned.
"The more we raise, the more creative and ambitious we can be with our design," they added.
Alongside a £35,000 pledge from the Town Council, the group has their eyes set on large grand funds.
Love Lowndes is officially one of the mayor's charities this year and other organisations have pledged their support, including Chesham Moor Gym and Swim and The Damon Singers.
On Wednesday, The Elgiva is hosting a Christmas Swish clothes swapping event, where visitors can exchange unwanted party clothes with proceeds going to Love Lowndes.
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