New Lostock Hall family centre and play area revamp due

The Tardy Gate play area in Lostock Hall Pic: South Ribble Borough Council

A revamp of a play area in Lostock Hall is set to be approved this week.

South Ribble Borough Council is also planning to build a new family wellbeing centre in the village too.

The play area redevelopment and the new family centre will cost around £500,000.

Councillor Paul Foster, Leader of South Ribble Borough Council, said: “I’m so pleased that today we are able to announce over half a million pounds of investment into Lostock Hall.

“It’s an area which is very important to us, and we are very much aware of the need for these facilities. We have been listening to our residents – who are so passionate – and we are thrilled that we can take these proposals forward.”

The Tardy Gate play area works will see refurb and renewal of the existing play area, improvements to the ball courts, better skate and wheeled facilities and new design and appearance of the play area.

A consultation on the design of the refurbished park is due to be launched pending approval of the plans by the council on Wednesday (19 July).

The current Tardy Gate play area Pic: South Ribble Borough Council

Cllr Foster said: “Having refurbished 11 play areas in four years with a further five on the horizon is an incredible achievement and I have no doubt children of all ages are much better off with improved facilities in their local areas.

“We understand the importance of having quality play areas and outdoor spaces right across the borough and I cannot wait to see this project continue.”

The new community centre, due to be managed by Finleys Families CIC – will be a ‘one-stop shop’ for families, expectant parents and carers.

It’s proposed to help with preparation for becoming parents, preparation for birthing, post-natal support, education sessions, social and play groups as well as general wrap-around family support.

Cllr Foster said: “This is very much about meeting the demands and needs of our residents and addressing the gaps of support in our local areas.

“We know that Lostock Hall and its surrounding areas have many families in much need of a facility such as this, and supporting the Centre, we can allow for the charity to deliver services in a way which can reduce their annual costs, allowing them to spend their vital funding on the people who need it the most.”