Work begins on new play park in St Philip

The children of Church Village, St Philip – will soon receive a  special Christmas gift– a new play park and recreational space.

This morning a parcel of land was cleared to pave the way for the initiative which is being constructed by the Ministry of Environment and National Beautification under its Clean and Green Initiative and will be completed in a matter of weeks.

Minister of Environment and National Beautification Adrian Forde who was present at the location today, along with constituents, said the children will not only contribute to keeping Barbados clean by keeping that particular area litter free, but they will also be able to call the space their own, as they play and create memories.

“I want to say to them, take care of it, it belongs to you. Own it. When you see paper on the lawn, you are responsible for picking it up and telling others don’t do it, that is not our way. You are going to set the example for the entire of Barbados to follow. As I said before, a little child shall lead them and you are going to lead the charge. And I want to give you, as little champions of the environment today the opportunity to be a part of this project,” Forde said.

Meanwhile, Member of Parliament for St Philip North Dr Sonia Browne said that while canvassing durinwg last elections, residents complained about the opened area, which will be de-bushed and turned into the play park.

Dr Browne said the children are in need of the facility at this time, considering that their opportunity to play was affected by the social distancing requirement caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“They were not able to play as much as they could at school. Games day was not really a games day. So now that they are on holiday this gives them the opportunity to run around in safety.

“They need green spaces where they can run around safely. It is not only for the children. But I would like to see the residents out here having their picnics and their lunch and use the area effectively to get some exercise, fresh air and to increase the community spirit,” Dr Browne said.

The Member of Parliament also urged the residents to assist the National Conservation Commission (NCC) with the taskof keeping the area clean and beautified.

Meanwhile, elderly resident Sheldean Croney, was in tears as she thanked Dr Browne and Minister Forde for spearheading the project, which she said was promised to residents
many years ago.

The resident said she is happy there is a facility for her grandchildren to go and play, noting that she will also be accompanying them at times to also enjoy the location. (AH)