It’s game on as improvements unveiled in village

Kibworth Beauchamp Parish Council has unveiled its Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) at Warwick Park in the village, on the site of the former skate park.

The new facility, which is already proving popular with local people, features football goals and basketball / netball nets, and can be used for a variety of sports.

The existing children’s play area in Warwick Park has also been enhanced with new galvanised bowtop railings replacing the old wooden ones, and new bins, benches and picnic tables introduced.

Both projects have been funded thanks to more than £45,000 of section 106 funding provided by developers to help improve community facilities and open spaces where new housing has been built.

Maria Smith, Clerk to Kibworth Beauchamp Parish Council, who helped coordinate the project with the Joint Recreation Board, said: “There has been a lot of hard work behind the scenes but I am delighted with how both projects have turned out. It is fantastic to see both adults and children enjoying these new facilities and it has already provided the community with more recreational opportunities. I have received many positive comments, particularly regarding the MUGA which really is a great asset to the village.”

Cllr Simon Whelband, Harborough District Council’s Cabinet lead for Wellbeing, Communities & Housing, said: “It’s great to see people already enjoying these fantastic facilities. I am delighted that the Council has been able to allocate funding to these two projects; I’d like to congratulate everyone involved for bringing these enhancements to the village which will encourage people to be more active and enjoy the outdoors.” 

Pictured above (l-r) Cllr Simon Whelband handing over the plaque to parish clerk Maria Smith, Nada Hankin from HDC, parish councillor Pat Copson, and Alison McDaid from HDC. Below - new benches at the Warwick Park play area, and right local lad Ben Jeynes shoots a hoop at the MUGA.