Controversial playground opens in Fareham after safety inspection despite parent's concerns

A controversial playground in Fareham town centre has been opened after undergoing a safety inspection.

The playground on West Street has sparked concerns about child safety from local parents, as it does not have a fence surrounding the play equipment.

Prior to opening, Fareham Borough Council undertook an independent safety inspection and completed pre-opening checks that deemed the play area to be safe for use. Council officers will be available at the play park today (October 7) to talk to visitors of the park and gather feedback from parents and carers.

Councillor Frair Burgess, executive member for leisure and community, said: “I’m delighted that we are now in a position to open the new play area.

Sign up for our free emails for all of the local news and sport headlines

“We have always been clear that children’s safety is paramount, which is why we wanted the reassurance of the independent safety inspection before making the final decision to open.

“I visited West Street myself at the weekend and it was lovely to see children already pointing out the new play equipment as they passed. It is a bright and inviting space and I hope it will become a popular place for families to stop and enjoy while they are in the town centre.

“Opening the play area is not the end of the story. We have listened carefully to the questions and concerns raised by parents, carers and councillors, and we will continue to listen once families experience using the space.

“Our officers will be there on opening day to hear feedback first-hand and we will continue to monitor how the play area is being used. If there are practical enhancements that would make the space work better, we will carefully review them to help guide our long-term improvements.

“We care deeply about creating a wonderful environment for children, and we look forward to growing this space alongside families."

Councillor Gemma Furnivall, who started a petition to oppose the park due to concerns around safety said: “I’ve been told that the plan is to have officers at the park to collect people’s views for a couple of days - I would encourage as many people as possible to go and have a look and give their opinions.

“Over a thousand people have already made their position clear but, if the Conservative executive at Fareham Borough Council need to hear from more people in order to make the changes needed, then let’s please help them to understand.

“I am assured that they are listening and learning and I fervently hope that’s the truth. My position is unchanged - this is not a safe play area in this location without barriers or fencing.”