NEWMAN Collard Playing Field Trust in Liss has secured a £75,000 grant towards replacement of play equipment.

The money is coming from the Biffa Award, as part of the Landfill Communities Fund.

With additional funding from Liss Parish Council, the project will replace equipment which is 30 years old.

The new park has been designed to be accessible and multi-functional. Responding to feedback from children, the park includes a wide range of equipment to promote imaginative play.

The old facility will close while the equipment is installed. It is planned work will start on September 18, and it is hoped the facility will be open by the October half term.

Newman Collard Playing Field Trust chairman Dorothy Collard said: “The trust’s aim is to enhance village life in Liss by providing playing fields and other recreational facilities.

“This Biffa Award, coupled with the funding from Liss Parish Council, will allow us to transform the dilapidated play park.

“Designed following input from local children, our ambition is to create a space for children of all ages and abilities and their families to enjoy. I think we’ve succeeded – and I look forward to local children and their families enjoying the park for many years to come.”

Liss Parish Council chairman Roger Hargreaves said: “One of Liss Parish Council’s priorities in our 2017-18 action plan is supporting the Newman Collard Trust in replacing this dilapidated play equipment.

“I’m delighted that as a council we have been able to part-fund this exciting redevelopment and help provide this fantastic new equipment for our residents.

“I was particularly impressed with the contribution to the design process made by children at the village infant and junior schools, and those who attend the local nursery.

“This project just shows what can be delivered when the local community works together.”