Wolverhampton playground to get new lease of life

Gatis Gardeners, who are a small group of local volunteers, have secured a lease for the Whitmore Reans playground.

The site includes a large outdoor play area, community building and separate fenced forest area.

Maria Billington, Gatis Gardeners co-creator, said: "Gaining the occupancy has been exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.

"But we are so excited for our long term plans and have already held a successful open day and started the refurbishment of the community building.

"We want to make it a place for the whole community to come together and have fun, get healthier, learn new things and break down any cultural barriers which may be in the area."

Funding to help support the running costs of the space has already been received from organisations such as Grow Wild, the Police Commissioners Community Action Fund and donations raised via the Gatis Gardeners Go Fund Me web page.

There are plans to create an outdoor space for yoga classes and a sensory garden alongside a forest school area and fitness boot camp. Projects for the summer holidays are also in place with hopes of family play days, a cinema club and the opening of The Real Junk Food Cafe – producing healthy vegetarian dishes.

Mrs Billington, who is a holistic therapist, said: "We are working extremely hard to make it the best possible space it can be and are always on the lookout for volunteers."

The group have agreed an initial three-month lease and are in talks to extend it.

Wolverhampton City Council declared the closure of the playground, as part of plans to save £465,000 in running costs.