Localism Grant helps community group secure new play area

A campaign to raise money for a play area in Rock has won funding from Wyre Forest District Council.

The £2,000 grant from Wyre Forest District Council’s Localism fund means the project at Millennium Green is a step closer to its £25,000 target. The money from Wyre Forest District Council will go towards buying new play equipment including a slide, jungle climber and basket swing.

Residents formed an action group called Rock Play to get the project off the ground. The group sent out a questionnaire which received overwhelming support in the village.

Since then residents have raised £13,000 by running a variety of fund-raising events.

Bob Marriot from Rock Play said: “We are over the moon to receive £2,000 from the Localism fund.

“The donation will help us move closer to our £25,000 target and securing a play area for Rock. All of this wouldn’t be possible without the coming together of like-minded individuals wanting to make a difference in their community.”

Wyre Forest District Council Leader Councillor Marcus Hart, who leads on Localism for the authority, said: “I’m delighted our Localism initiative has been able to support the Rock Play campaign. 

“This campaign highlights an amazing community spirit and is exactly the kind of project our Localism fund was set up to support – working in partnership with communities  to improve services and facilities for local residents.”

For more information about Localism including how to apply for grants visit http://www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/localismfund.

Caption: Back row, (l-r): Katie Hawthorn, aged 9, Tom Hawthorn aged 12, Rock Play treasurer Jenny Hawthorn, Logan Morris, Chairman of Rock Village Hall Committee Ian Wilson, Leader of Wyre Forest District Council Councillor Marcus Hart, Secretary of Rock Village Hall Committee Richard Hall, Sophie Bradley. Front row, (l-r) Beau Sherriff, aged 6, AJ Sherriff, aged 9, Olivia Bradley, aged 7 and Katie Bradley, aged 4.