Skelton Children’s Play Park to Get Inclusive Upgrade After £20,000 Lottery Grant

Skelton's much-loved children's play park is set for a major upgrade following the award of a £20,000 grant from The National Lottery Community Fund.

Skelton Parish Council has announced that the Brecksfield playground, located in the heart of the village, will soon feature new inclusive play equipment, ensuring that children of all ages and abilities can enjoy the facilities.

A National Lottery spokesman said:

"We are overjoyed to share that Skelton Parish Council has been awarded £20,000 from The National Lottery Community Fund. After conducting research, it became clear that the existing play park did not fully cater for children of all ages, abilities, and diverse needs."

The Parish Council Clerk explained that the council recognised its existing budget would not allow for the improvements needed without increasing the precept. The council therefore sought funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, consulting with local children and families, and working closely with play park providers to create a design that is inclusive, creative, and reflects the local community.

The National Lottery Community Fund distributes money raised by National Lottery players for good causes and is the largest community funder in the UK.

Councillor Julie Watson, Chair of Skelton Parish Council, said:

"It's amazing news that we've been successful in securing funding for new play equipment. We knew how important this project was for our community. Thank you to everyone who supported us on this journey — the public for their feedback, local schools for allowing us to engage with children and young people, and our Clerk, Colin Ellis, residents, and fellow councillors for working together to achieve such a fantastic improvement for the Brecksfield playground."

The new equipment, which consists of an inclusive Wheelchair Access Roundabout and a Sturdy Swing Steel Frame (2.4m high) comprising one bay with a You-to-Me Seat and a Mirage Seat, installed on a Wet Pour Rubber Safety Surface, will ensure that the Brecksfield playground remains an important, welcoming, and inclusive space for all children in Skelton for years to come.

Skelton Parish Council serves the residents of Skelton, near York, working to maintain and improve local amenities and enhance community life. The Council manages key facilities, including the Brecksfield playground, and is committed to promoting inclusivity and wellbeing for all members of the village.

The improvements to the Brecksfield playground will be completed early in 2026.