Seascale community beach park project
A project supported by LLWR to provide a safe, attractive seafront area that people in this west Cumbrian community and surrounding villages would enjoy for years to come.
Seascale Community Beach Park
Project summary
| Nearest NDA sites | Duration | Total investment | LLWR contribution | Partners | Delivered by |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sellafield and Low Level Waste Repository (LLWR) | 2 years | £158,400 | £10,000 (over 2 years) | Copeland Community Fund, Community Choices, CN Group, Seascale Parish Council, Sellafield Ltd, The Hadfield Trust, Persimmon Community Champions and local fundraising | Seascale Community Beach Park Group |
Seascale’s old play area on the beach front had become dated, deteriorating over a number of years into a state of disrepair. The Seascale Community Beach Park Project was set up by a group of proactive parents and village community members, with the full support of the landowners and Seascale Parish Council. The aim was to provide a safe, attractive seafront area that people in the community and surrounding villages would enjoy for years to come.
Outcomes:
- creation of a new, safe and inviting community play area for Seascale and surrounding areas
- raising the aspirations of the community
- enhanced provision for the rural community
- higher levels of active citizenship
- increase community pride and cohesion through delivery of community events
Why was this project important to the community?
The old play area on Seascale’s beach front had been very well used since it opened over 30 years ago but had deteriorated over time. The community expressed concern about a lack of facilities in the village where children and young people could play and interact.
Aim
To create:
- a ‘wow’ factor play area that promotes imaginative and social play, to be enjoyed by people of all ages, both local families and visitors.
- a space that sits comfortably in the coastal environment and relates to the area’s maritime heritage.
What was involved?
- Removal and replacement of existing play equipment
- Construction of a playscape that encourages exploration and social play
- Promotion of community events that encourage families to spend more time outdoors
What worked well?
- Community-led initiative
- Local resident as Chairperson
- Local knowledge helped inform design and intent
- Subtle referencing to seascape and maritime heritage ensured the bespoke facility was in keeping with Seascale village
- Community involvement at all stages during design and development
Lizzie Mawson, Chair of the Beach Park project said:
We want to create a unique, challenging and interesting play landscape covering ages from toddler to teen and provide a designed landscape to include all members of the community, and create an attractive and unique seafront.
Cath Giel, Head of Public Affairs at LLWR, said:
Even at concept stage, the enthusiasm and energy for getting the scheme off the ground was more than evident. Lizzie made an excellent pitch and, with LLWR’s contribution, was able to demonstrate real support and secure the much- needed match funding.
Next steps
- Establish a programme of events
- Raise awareness and profile
- Encourage community usage
- Relax and enjoy