Families and communities in Newcastle-under-Lyme are set to benefit from more than £1.8 million of investment in parks, playgrounds, and green spaces, as the Borough Council delivers on its promise to prioritise local residents. The investment will fund improvements ranging from modern playground equipment and enhanced footpaths to new pump tracks and recreational facilities, aiming to transform community spaces over the next five years.
The Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council is utilising £1,845,369, secured from housing developers through Section 106 agreements, for approximately a dozen improvement projects. This funding ensures that local communities gain tangible benefits from ongoing development in their areas. These agreements typically secure financial contributions from developers towards local infrastructure and community facilities, allowing the council to improve existing parks and green spaces while minimising ongoing costs.
This initiative is a key part of the Council's new 2026–2030 Council Plan, Building a Better Borough, which prioritises clean, well-maintained neighbourhoods, strong communities, and visible improvements for residents. Work is already underway at Lyme Valley Park, Chesterton Park, and Bradwell Dingle, with further investment planned for areas including Loggerheads, Betley, Audley, Madeley, and Alsagers Bank.
Councillor Andrew Fisher, Cabinet Member for Residents' Services and Neighbourhoods, stated that the council's commitment is to invest in improvements that make a real difference to residents' everyday lives. He emphasised that money secured from developers is being used effectively to enhance the parks, playgrounds, and community spaces relied upon by families and residents. The focus is on practical, visible improvements such as new play equipment, safer footpaths, and better recreational facilities, aiming to raise standards and strengthen communities.
Among the proposals being considered is a £105,000 refurbishment of the playground at Hugo Way in Loggerheads, originally built around 20 years ago. Residents will be consulted on desired improvements before the scheme is put out to tender, ensuring local families have a say in their neighbourhood facilities.
Councillor Ben Simpson, Cabinet Member for Waste, Recycling and Green Spaces, added that the administration is determined to restore pride in the Borough by focusing on essential services and local spaces. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that new housing developments provide genuine benefits to local people, justifying the significant investment in parks, playgrounds, and community facilities across the towns and villages. The goal is to provide children with great play areas, families with attractive spaces, and all residents with a sense of pride in their local environment.
This investment aligns with the Council's broader objective to protect and enhance the character of its towns and villages, improving public spaces and ensuring resources deliver lasting benefits for residents.
