In 2015, Streatham’s ward councillors went around the houses asking people to sign a petition to get rid of the old, dilapidated playground and provide Streatham with a new one. On the 19th September, work started on the £800,000 project after the majority of families overwhelmingly said “yes” to the works. Lambeth Council decided to fund the project after discussing the plans with local ward councillors, The Streatham Common Cooperative (SCCoop) and the Friends of Streatham Common. The playground is due to open just in time for the Christmas holidays.
Recent years have been busy for Streatham with the rise of many new cafes such as: ‘Barcelona’, ‘The Hideaway’, ‘The Filling Station’ and most recently ‘Brickwood’. As Cllr Sonia Winifred, Cabinet Member for Equalities and Culture said: “Streatham is already becoming known as a great place to live and this new facility will only add to that growing reputation”. Bringing new wooden equipment, plants, toilet facilities and a refreshment kiosk this playground will not only be ‘the’ place for toddlers and teens but also for families.
In only a few weeks the gates to the park will open and the innocent sound of children’s laughter will ring throughout Streatham. This playground will allow children to develop their identities and make new friends as well as providing a meeting place for families and friends. As Streatham grows this playground will be the centre of Streatham’s community; a community that has always loved and respected its surroundings and its people.
So, as the Christmas holidays come closer, pack your gloves, hats and scarves and head down to Streatham to be one of the first to experience this wonderful new playground. To see a sneak peek of what is to come visit: “ http://love.lambeth.gov.uk”.
