THE future of a project to provide disabled-friendly play equipment could be in jeopardy unless funding is found within weeks.
An amazing £37,000 has already been raised towards the £48,000 revamp of Cedar Avenue playground in Sutton Weaver through donations.
But Sutton Weaver Parish Council, which is behind the fundraiser, say a final £3,000 must be raised by the August 31 deadline, or all the funding promises will expire.
Weaver Vale MP Mike Amesbury said: “This is a tremendous effort by the parish council and community. Inclusivity for all, throughout life's journey, is something I passionately believe in.
“Times are tough, but I would urge any individuals, businesses or organisations to consider backing this fabulous cause.
“The team is so close to making the target, and it would be a shame if the project fell at the final hurdle.”
Pledges include £20,000 from Cheshire West and Chester Council, £7,500 from the Steve Morgan Foundation, £750 from Jackie Weaver, of Handforth Parish Council fame, £500 from Siric Ltd and £450 from Helsby Charity Tractor Road Run.
The project will fund the installation of a wheelchair-accessible swing and roundabout at the playground, with the layout altered and a new access path laid.
Mum-of-three Louise Molyneux-Rogers, from Sutton Weaver, said her disabled son Dylan, who has cerebral folate deficiency, would love to play just like his able-bodied sisters.
She explained: “It would be life-changing. How do you explain to someone with limited understanding ‘Well, I am sorry, you cannot do that, but your sisters can’?”
Sutton Weaver Parish Council chairman Cllr Brian Starkey added: “Thank you to everyone who has pledged money so far, whether a few pounds or thousands of pounds.
“This project will enable inclusive play for all children in a safe setting, and it is not just the immediate community that will benefit.
“This facility has a much wider impact because the playground also serves the needs of residents and children in surrounding villages and areas. Please donate if you can.”
If you would like to donate, visit spacehive.com/suttonweavercommunityplayground-redevelopment
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here