Winton Recreation ground will receive £50,000 to transform the site after winning the vote in the People’s Millions competition.
The Bournemouth Council led project will turn a disused bowling green at Winton Recreation Ground into a play and activity garden suitable for all children including those with special educational needs.
The nature and sensory inspired space will be fantastic for all children and will also provide much needed outdoor space for local cubs, scouts, brownies and guides.
Winton play garden went head-to-head against a park project by Bembridge Parish council from the Isle of Wight in a television appeal for public votes on ITV on Wednesday night. Votes were open to the public from 9am to midnight on Wednesday and the winner was announced on last night’s ITV Meridian programme.
Councillor Lawrence Williams, portfolio holder for leisure, culture and tourism, said:
“This is fantastic news and our thanks go to everyone who voted for this worthwhile project. The new activity and play garden will make such a difference to young people and will really benefit those children with special educational needs.”
Amanda Catlin, neighbourhood warden, said:
“The support from local residents has been brilliant and their votes have made sure that this exciting new play and activity garden in Winton can become a reality. The new proposed play equipment will be suitable for children with physical and learning disabilities so making it a great accessible place to spend time.
“We can’t wait to get started on the project which will make a real difference to local groups as well as the rest of Bournemouth.”
The People’s Millions is a partnership between Big Lottery Fund and ITV where the public help decide which community projects receive up to £50,000 of National Lottery funding.
