New play equipment comes to Cropston Drive and Sharpley Avenue

Published: Mon 3 March, 2025

New and improved play equipment is set to be installed at Cropston Drive and Sharpley Avenue in Coalville, providing local children with exciting new opportunities for outdoor fun and physical activity.

The project is being jointly funded, with 50% of the costs covered by Aggregate Industries’ Bardon Hill Quarry Community Fund and 50% provided by North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) through the Coalville Special Expenses Asset Protection budget.

Cropston Drive

With work starting on Wednesday 12 February, new play equipment is being installed at Cropston Drive. The project includes the removal of old structures and the addition of rubber surfacing for improved safety.

The existing swing, bin and seat will remain. Surfacing work begins on Thursday 20 February, with an inspection on Monday 24 February after which, the play area will be open for use by local people.

Sharpley Avenue

The installation of new play equipment at Sharpley Avenue will begin on Tuesday 18 February. The project includes the removal of the multi-play unit and seesaw, with new rubber surfacing.

Surfacing work starts on Friday 21 February, and an inspection is scheduled for Monday 24 February.

To ensure a smooth installation process, security fencing will be erected around the working, storage, and waste areas. A designated grass area outside each play area will be used for storage, welfare facilities, and waste skips.

Shane Tompkin, Works Manager at Bardon Hill Quarry said: “"We are delighted to be able to support these projects which will have a real impact for local people and families.

 "Bardon Hill is our flagship site where we've been operating for more than 160 years.

“With many of our people based there from the local area, it is really important to us to support the local community in this way.”

Councillor Michael Wyatt, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Climate Change at NWLDC, said: “We are delighted to see these much-needed improvements being made to our local play areas. The new play equipment will offer fresh and exciting play opportunities for children in the community, enhancing outdoor recreation spaces for years to come.

“Investing in outdoor spaces for children and families is a key priority, and we are grateful to Aggregate Industries’ Bardon Hill Quarry for their support in making this project a reality.

“We can't wait for the community to enjoy these fantastic new facilities."

Residents are encouraged to follow safety guidelines and respect the work areas during the installation period. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we bring these exciting improvements to your local play spaces.