Leader’s Viewpoint: Cllr Munsif Dad: August 2026
Leader’s Viewpoint: Cllr Munsif Dad: August 2026
I’d like to start this month’s column by talking about the improvements we are making to play areas right across Hyndburn. Providing safe, modern and inclusive spaces for our children and young people to enjoy is something I know residents rightly care about, and we are determined to keep investing in our parks and play facilities.
I’m pleased to say that the redeveloped play area at Gatty Park has now officially reopened. The refurbishment has replaced equipment that was more than 15 years old with modern facilities designed for children of all ages and abilities. This £140,000 project has been made possible through a £40,000 grant from FCC Communities Foundation, £30,000 from the Lancashire Environmental Fund and £70,000 of Council investment. I’d like to thank everyone involved in bringing this much-loved play area back to life.
I am delighted to share that these works are just the beginning. Works at Harwood Road Recreation Ground in Rishton and Windsor Road in Great Harwood are due to commence in September 2026 thanks to funding from the UK Government Pride in Place Impact Fund. This will be followed by Peel Park and Burnley Road Recreation Ground later this year, with the latter supported by the Clayton and Altham Prospect Panel with funding from various sources including FCC Communities, Pride in Place Impact Funding, Lancashire Environmental Fund and Awards for All. Eagle Street Skate Park is earmarked for a major overhaul and will shortly go out to public consultation, giving young people and potential users of the new facility an opportunity to have their say on its future.
Alongside this jam-packed schedule of planned works, we are also progressing designs for a play area around Bradshaw Street supported with funding from LCC and Play4Uz2, improvements to Oak Hill Park and Highams play areas funded by MHCLG, as well as a new MUGA in Great Harwood, with works on these projects planned to be staggered throughout 2027. I am determined that we continue to seek additional funding so that we can deliver further improvements in communities across the borough and I am certain that the community will come together to enjoy these refurbished spaces when works are completed.
As we continue to enjoy the sunny weather this summer, there is plenty happening in our parks that will appeal to residents of all ages. This week, Milnshaw Park will host an event as part of the fifth year of the Let’s Move Hyndburn summer park events, following the programme’s successful launch at Mercer Park in July. On Friday 14th August, 11am – 3pm, residents will find a full day of activities, including a climbing wall, archery, dance sessions, sport activities and more. These free events are a great way for families to get active, enjoy the outdoors and make use of our fantastic green spaces.
Continuing into this weekend, Accrington town centre will also come alive with Accrington Youth Fest and the Teenage Market on Saturday 15th August, from 10am to 3pm. With BMX, a pop-up skate park, climbing wall, art activities, live performances and much more, it promises to be a fantastic celebration of the creativity and talent of our young people. I am thoroughly looking forward to seeing the community come together in celebration of youth culture, creativity and community spirit.
Finally, many residents will now be aware that, from April 2028, four new unitary councils are proposed to replace the current 15 councils in Lancashire, subject to parliamentary approval. For now, there are no immediate changes to the day-to-day services residents rely on. Our focus remains on supporting local communities and continuing to provide excellent services while the next steps are worked through. We will keep sharing updates and explaining what happens next as plans develop. You can read more here: www.lancashirelgr.co.uk