Families in Chepstow can now enjoy a transformed play area following the completion of a major improvement project at Castle Dell.
Work on the new Castle Dell Play Area has been completed through a partnership between Monmouthshire County Council, Friends of Dell Park Chepstow and Chepstow Town Council.
The project has replaced ageing play equipment that had been in place since the 1960s, creating a modern, high-quality space designed to offer significantly improved play opportunities for local children and young people.
The wider scheme has also included repairs to a neighbouring boundary wall, the replacement of key footpaths and steps through the Dell, and measures aimed at improving accessibility for families and disabled users.
Funding for the project has come through grants from Chepstow Town Council, the National Lottery Community Fund and the Transforming Towns Programme.
Monmouthshire County Council Cabinet Member for Equalities and Engagement, Cllr Angela Sandles, said: “This fantastic new play area is the result of years of commitment, collaboration and community spirit. I would like to thank the Friends of Dell Park Chepstow, Chepstow Town Council, our partners and council teams who have helped bring this vision to life.
“Castle Dell is a much-loved community space, and these improvements will ensure children and families can enjoy a safe, accessible and exciting place to play for many years to come. It is a great example of what can be achieved when communities and public services work together.”
The completion of the scheme follows years of work by Friends of Dell Park Chepstow, a voluntary group of local parents which first began campaigning for improvements to the site in 2016.
The group has worked with children and families to help ensure the new play area reflects the needs and wishes of the local community.
Cllr Vanessa Badderley-Potter, Mayor of Chepstow, said: “Today should be all about The Friends of the Dell and their indomitable spirit.
“As a town council, we’re delighted to have worked in partnership on this project and to contribute towards its delivery. This exciting new play area will bring enjoyment to generations of children while encouraging more families to visit and spend time in Chepstow town centre.”
Vicky Burston-Yates, Chair of Friends of Dell Park, Chepstow, said: “Seeing the park filled with children playing and families spending time together is everything we hoped for when this journey began 10 years ago. This project has always been about breathing new life into a much-loved community space and creating somewhere that brings people together, encourages play and can be enjoyed for generations to come.
“On behalf of our small volunteer group, I’d like to thank The National Lottery Community Fund, Monmouthshire County Council and Chepstow Town Council for believing in our vision and helping to make it a reality. We are also incredibly grateful to the local community for supporting us every step of the way.”
