ISG Jackson commences work on Florence Hayes Recreation Ground £700K regeneration project
(25/06/2009)

Partially funded through the Big Lottery Fund, a regeneration project is set to breathe new life into Florence Hayes Recreation Ground, which has been home to a children’s play centre since the mid-1970s.

ISG Jackson Special Projects has commenced work on the £700K regeneration project within the London Borough of Enfield to build a new children’s play centre, adventure play area and community sports facility at Florence Hayes Recreation Ground. The new facilities form an integral part of the Council’s vision to ensure every child in the borough has access to enjoyable, safe and sustainable play opportunities.

The original facilities were closed five years ago and were in such a state of disrepair that they will be demolished to make way for the new high specification centre. The single-storey, traditionally constructed building will feature a large open plan play area, with offices and classrooms, and the centre has been specifically designed to cater for children with disabilities. Expected to become an important focal point for the community, the facility will be used out of hours by various local groups and for training purposes.

Externally, ISG Jackson Special Projects will create an adventure play environment, which will be subdivided into a number of activity areas including a sensory garden, hard play area and community garden area. A floodlit multi-use games area (MUGA) will be built adjacent to the new centre with markings for five-a-side football, netball and basketball. The contractor will also create a number of pathways and a car park, with the project scheduled for completion towards the end of the year.

Stuart Talbot, divisional director for ISG Jackson Special Projects, commented: "On completion, the new Florence Hayes Play Centre will not only become an essential local resource, but also a beacon for community regeneration efforts within the borough. The development will help to turn the underused park area into a facility that not only enhances the built environment but will also strengthen community cohesion.”