Whimple communities will soon benefit from two improved play areas thanks to close collaboration between East Devon District Council and Whimple Parish Council.
Upgrade works at Slewton Crescent, a site owned and managed by East Devon District Council, have been completed and the play area is now open for everyone to enjoy. Some of the new items include:
- A large climbing frame with multiple activities.
- A double trampoline.
- Swings.
- A large spinning disc.
The improvements are part of East Devon District Council’s £1.2 million district-wide investment. Although planned for some time, construction uncovered that part of the land intended for the Slewton Crescent play area’s expansion was owned by another party. The layout therefore had to change and both councils have responded quickly to keep the project on track.
In good news for the Whimple community, four pieces of equipment that were originally planned for Slewton Crescent have instead been granted to Whimple Parish Council for the Parish Field play area, with equipment being funded through Section 106 monies. The equipment includes:
- A zipwire.
- A rope climbing unit.
- A rotating see-saw.
- A standing see-saw.
This approach, supported by both councils, ensures no loss to the community. All equipment will still be installed locally, with Whimple residents able to enjoy the full range of new play features across two well-loved sites, which are located less than five minutes’ walk apart.
Councillor Geoff Jung, Portfolio Holder Environment – Operations, East Devon District Council, said: “This is a great example of how local councils can work together to find positive solutions for our communities. While the land ownership issue meant adapting our plans, we were determined that no child in Whimple should miss out. I’m delighted that the equipment will still be enjoyed locally and that both councils have worked collaboratively to make this happen.”
Councillor Denise Dearden, Chair, Whimple Parish Council, said: "We are very pleased to be working with East Devon District Council to ensure that the play equipment remains within Whimple. We look forward to these items being installed in the Parish Field, along with the new parish council play area in Spring 2026. The Parish Field play area will be fantastic when it is finished, and we look forward to local families using it.”
Councillor Todd Olive, Ward Councillor for Whimple and Rockbeare, said: “I’m proud to have worked closely with both councils to ensure these play areas benefit our communities. Through close collaboration and commitment to problem-solving, local children will now be able to enjoy the full range of equipment as promised.”
DevonAir Radio Reveals Long-Running Secret Sound and Donates £1,000 to Children’s Bramble Ward
E bikes seized in Exeter City Centre and one male arrested for immigration offences
Festive Hampers Bring Warmth and Joy to Isca Academy Families
Plan for new solar panel arrays will save money and cut emissions in Exeter
Big-hearted Exeter Students Host Festive Feast for Community
Exeter’s safe haven striving to break the cycle of homelessness
Christmas wrapping paper and cards can’t be recycled in green bins
Police give update following the serious collision, Colyford in last week
