Shaping the future of play spaces across Cannock Chase

Oxford Play Area

Cannock Chase Council is reviewing several of its play areas to ensure they remain safe, accessible and fit for purpose. The review focuses on five locations:

  • Bevan Lee Play Area
  • Wright's Avenue Play Area
  • Bunyan Place Play Area
  • Betty's Lane Play Area
  • Oxford Road Play Area

We want every resident to have a meaningful opportunity to help shape what these spaces could become in the future.

Why we’re reviewing play areas

Many of our play areas have served communities for decades. However, some sites are now old, under used or no longer meet modern safety and accessibility standards. Evidence shows that quality of play provision has a greater impact on children’s wellbeing than quantity.

This review helps us understand how residents use these spaces today - and how they would like them to be used in the future.

What this programme aims to achieve

We are committed to delivering safe, exciting, inclusive and high quality spaces that support physical activity, play, health and wellbeing. Our objectives are to:

  • Inform residents about why changes may be needed
  • Engage communities to understand current use
  • Consult on proposals for improvement or repurposing
  • Reassure families that wellbeing, safety and inclusion are central
  • Build trust through transparency and regular updates
  • Demonstrate impact by showing how community feedback shapes final decisions

What could change?

Some sites may be improved or repurposed into new community spaces. Potential benefits include new health enhancing spaces such as:

  • Outdoor fitness areas
  • Nature and biodiversity zones
  • Community gardens
  • Safe cycling/scooter tracks
  • Social and community spaces

How you can get involved

We want to hear from everyone who uses or values these play spaces. There are several ways to take part in the consultation:

Complete the online survey for each site below. Consultation closes on 13 September 2026 

Attend a drop in event during the summer and take part in our Planning for Real activity to explore ideas for each site. Officers will be at the following locations on:

  • Wednesday 29 July, 1pm - 4pm at Norton Canes Community Centre
  • Wednesday 5 August, 1pm - 4pm at Oxford Road Play Area & Green Space, Rumer Hill
  • Wednesday 26 August, 1pm - 4pm at Cannock Stadium 

Request a hard copy of the survey by calling 01543 462621.
 

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