Plans to remove Middleton Crescent play park 'nonsense'

Gary Blundell, councillor for New Costessey ward, added that the company responsible needed to answer why the removal in Middleton Crescent is happening.

A spokesperson for Saffron Housing, which manages the park, argued that it is unable to replace the damaged equipment due to “lack of funds” and will instead return the area to grassland.

Middleton Crescent play park will be returned to grassland, according to Saffron Housing (Image: Google Maps)

Mr Blundell, however, highlighted that the association made £5m in profits last year.

He said: "It makes no sense to me.

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"That park was put there 40 years ago via a developer commitment and they have had literally months to come up with a repair or replacement.

"Saffron has been making so many claims about investing more in the community and this is a company that made £5m in profits last year so people need answers why this is really happening."

Councillor Gary Blundell has opposed the plans to remove the play park equipment (Image: Gary Blundell)

A spokesman for Saffron Housing defended the decision saying: “We understand that the removal of play equipment at Middleton Crescent play park may be disappointing.

"The safety of tenants and members of the local community is key and following a safety assessment and careful consideration, we will not be providing new play equipment at this stage.

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"We are committed to investing in and improving homes for tenants, and during these challenging times, we have to channel investment in the areas that make the biggest impact for our tenants.

"We are continuing to work with local stakeholders and groups to explore potential alternatives."

Saffron Housing said it was aware the decision would cause disappointment among locals (Image: Google Maps)

Mr Blundell added: "In this day and age we need places for kids to play and spaces where they can be outside.

"They're also vital for people's well-being and mental health.

"Not to mention the overall cost for Saffron to remove the equipment. If they are really struggling to find the money to save it, then they could reach out to residents who could band together and make a difference."

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Concerned locals expressed their frustration on social media, with one saying: "I am utterly disappointed with this decision, my daughter loved going over to this little park every day when we first moved into our bungalow.

"It sounds to me that they are taking it down to turn it into green space to later be sold to be developed on.

"I'm utterly disappointed and infuriated to see a play area for kids disappear."