Refurbished park offers safe space for girls and families

Residents celebrated their newly refurbished playground and outdoor gym that offers a safe space for families and girls. 

Damien Egan, the Mayor of Lewisham was joined by the three former Mayoresses, Dawn Atkinson, Natasha Ricketts and Christina Norman as well as councillor Brenda Dacres, deputy mayor to celebrate the opening of the newly refurbished Evelyn Green in Watton Road, Deptford.

The Mayor cut the ribbon on the playground and got to try out the new gym equipment before chatting with residents at the community fun day.

The new play equipment includes a basket swing, slides, see-saw, rope bridge, balance beams, a springer and a carousel. 

There are new benches and seating as well as a shelter for young people and families to be able to relax, socialise and picnic.

The council said that the new playground was improved to create a safe and welcoming space for families and also a safe space for girls to get together. 

The new outdoor fitness area is positioned next to the popular Multi-Use Games Area, known to residents as the Blue Cage, which was opened last autumn.

The council said the equipment is to get people exercising outdoors in the fresh air and enjoy the social aspect of working out with others. 

Damien Egan, Mayor of Lewisham said: “I’m so excited to see these fantastic new facilities now finished and in use at Evelyn Green.  

“Outdoor space is so vital for children and for all our residents, particularly in areas where many families do not have their own gardens. 

“Residents in Evelyn have enjoyed their new basketball courts over the last year and I hope they enjoy their brilliant new playground and outdoor gym for years to come.”

Pictured top: Damien Egan, the Mayor of Lewisham, joined by the three former Mayoresses, Dawn Atkinson, Natasha Ricketts and Christina Norman as well as Councillor Brenda Dacres, Deputy Mayor and local residents to open the refurbished park (Picture: Tariq Choudry)