Zip wire and play area installed at Payhembury playground

The period of closure saw the installation of a zip wire, a nest swing, and a climber, installed by Wicksteed.

These additions were ready for use by July 19, just in time for the school holidays.

The reopening event attracted several senior students from Payhembury Primary School, who tested the new equipment and responded with enthusiasm.

This refurbishment comes after the Payhembury Parish Council took over the playing fields' management early in 2018.

Children play on the new zip line (Image: Payhembury Parish Council)

The council consulted with the community, including residents and children from the primary school, to shape the renovation plans.

However, these plans were put on hold due to the Covid pandemic.

By the summer of 2022, a new toddlers' area was installed with new football posts and nets added in 2023, partly funded by a grant from the County Councillor's Locality Budget.

The council managed to fund the improvements thanks to several large Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) payments, an S106 grant from East Devon District Council, a Locality Budget Grant from the county councillor, and contributions from the parishioners.

The total project cost has run to approximately £50,000, marking it as one of the largest undertakings by Payhembury Parish Council.

The last refurbishment phase, expected to replace the large wooden cube at the playground's centre, is yet to commence due to current funding constraints.