Next step approved for revamp of two Solihull play areas

Sam Greenway

21 June 2024 at 8:17 am·2-min read

Senior Solihull councillors have given their backing to revamping two Solihull playgrounds by leasing land. As the Local Democracy Reporting Service previously reported officers had recommended land at The Oakley Housing Estate in Fen End and Moorend Avenue in Chelmsley Wood were leased so that play areas could be revamped.

The proposal was discussed at the latest meeting of Solihull Council ’s cabinet. Peter Carroll, head of strategic land and property at the authority, explained it was in front of cabinet as it needed its approval for the plans to be put out to public consultation, required under the law.

On the Fen End site he said: “It’s a playground (Balsall) parish council has offered to invest in. By granting a longer lease (of 21 years) to them then they are able to secure investment funding to maintain those facilities for the local community - that funding wouldn’t otherwise be accessible.”

Mr Carroll said the second was a “well established” adventure playground in Moorend Avenue maintained by Meriden Adventure Playground Association (MAPA). He told councillors MAPA wanted a lease also lasting 21 years for the same reason - to be to access funding and “invest and secure that facility for the long term”.

Moorend Avenue, Chelmsley Wood play area -Credit:Google Maps

The officer added there had been support for the plan, including from the ward members. Councillor Karen Grinsell, the deputy leader of Solihull Council who chaired the meeting in absence of leader Ian Courts, said: “It seems like it is an excellent proposal for the community.

“I can’t envisage too much opposition to this.” The only comment made during the meeting was from leader of the Liberal Democrat group, Ade Adeyemo, who said: “When I first read this ‘disposal’ gave the impression we were actually giving the land away, but we are not.

“I think we should make it clear it's actually a lease”. Mr Carroll explained this was the legal term needed to be used for the consultation, which was why the word had been used.

Coun Grinsell asked if anyone agreed, to which unanimous approval was given. The meeting took place on Thursday night, (June 20), at the Civic Suite.

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