Unveiled: £375,000 Shrewsbury Quarry play plans inspired by Darwin
Plans for a £375,000 transformation of Shrewsbury's most popular play area – including a splash park – were today unveiled.
Now people in the town are being asked to have their say over Shrewsbury Town Council's proposals for new play equipment and splash features at the Quarry play area.
The council has agreed the funding for the project and has shortlisted two proposals for the park, both with a Darwin theme. The new colourful facility will incorporate the existing paddling pool, which will be transformed into a splash park, as well as traditional swings, slides and roundabouts.
The new splash facilities would run from Easter to September but could also be used when the fountains are switched off for the rest of the year.
Shrewsbury Town Council Clerk Helen Ball said that the fountains would use up to 1,000 litres of water a minute, which has led to the council looking to implement a water recycling system which would not affect the water supply.
Mrs Ball said that a consultation would be carried out throughout October, with a decision on the preferred option expected in November. It is hoped that the park will be open for use by Easter 2016.
Planning permission will be needed for the project because some of the play structures are up to 13 feet tall.
Mrs Ball said: "There is so much excitement in the two options and we think children will really love them. We want this to be the best park in Shropshire."
People will be asked to vote on their preferred option on the council's website. The results of the voting will be collated and will determine the final design.
Councillor Alan Mosley, leader of the council said the park would help to attract even more visitors to Shrewsbury. He said: "I'm delighted with the exciting plans which have been put forward and look forward to consultation with the general public and especially the young people who will use the play area."
Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council Portfolio Holder for Business, ip&e, Culture and Commissioning said: "We are sure the Town Council will approach this project with vigour and we look forward to seeing the finished result next year."
Details of the two preferred options, and voting details, are available to view at www.shrewsburytowncouncil.gov.uk
The consultation ends on October 30.