A playground in Southall’s Emerald Square housing development owned by A2Dominion has been described as “one of the most neglected playgrounds in Southall” by locals.
They are asking the housing group to show a little love to spruce things up as they claim their playground has been left in a poor state for years.
With a broken bench, poor facilities and litter strewn across it, the residents say children can’t use it due to it being poorly maintained.
In a tweet, After School Play said: “This has to rank as one of the most neglected playgrounds in #Southall, situated in the most deprived part of Ealing Borough according to the 2021 census. Stop treating children as though they are the underserving poor.”
What is the large hard standing? A MUGA? This playground isn't used whatever the season and should be a communal space for the community to connect. The view from the playground is really unappealing. Stop neglecting the needs of residents. 2/2 @A2DCommunities at Emerald Square. pic.twitter.com/KL8RvDNdEd
— After School Play (@Playfulangel2) February 5, 2023
Showing photos of what they saw, After School Play asked a2dominion “What is the large hard standing? A MUGA? This playground isn’t used whatever the season and should be a communal space for the community to connect. The view from the playground is really unappealing. Stop neglecting the needs of residents.”
Neil Reynolds, chair of Ealing Greens is calling on a2dominion to not neglect the playground. He told EALING.NEWS: “Local play facilities that residents and their families can easily access are vital. Maintaining and rejuvenating existing sites that A2Dominion have neglected should be the top priority.”
Dawn Wightman, director of homes & communities, at A2Dominion told EALING.NEWS: “We’re committed to ensure our customers have clean and safe areas to use. Our playgrounds are maintained weekly by onsite colleagues and inspected monthly by accredited officials. We regret that some fly-tipping has taken place near the space and these items will be removed by our contractor.”
Ms Wightman added: “We are working closely with the Safer Neighbourhoods team and our partners to improve the playground and upgrades are planned for the seating areas and equipment. We will continue to engage with residents, and we welcome any suggestions they have to ensure the area can be enjoyed by everyone in the community.”
