Play areas and sports facilities across Canvey Island and Benfleet are to receive a £2.5 million overhaul after Castle Point Borough Council approved its largest ever investment in community open spaces. The package, agreed unanimously by the Cabinet on 17 June, includes £200,000 in match funding for a new 3G pitch at Waterside Farm Leisure Centre, which could unlock a further £800,000 from the Football Association.
The fund allocates £730,000 to upgrade playgrounds at Leigh Beck Open Space, Kismet Park, King George V Playing Fields on Canvey, as well as King George V Playing Fields and Woodside Park in Benfleet. A further £450,000 will pay for new multi-use games areas, outdoor gym equipment, and extra seating. Separately, the council has secured £270,000 in government money specifically for Canvey Island playground improvements. Council Leader Dave Blackwell called the investment significant for residents, while Deputy Leader Warren Gibson said it would make a real difference for families and young people.
The programme builds on earlier work that saw £1 million spent on Richmond Park and Hadleigh Memorial Park, plus the borough’s first inclusive playground at South Benfleet Playing Fields. Waterside Farm Leisure Centre, already home to a swimming pool, gym, and sports hall, hosts the annual Castle Point fireworks display each November. The new pitch is expected to benefit both regular users and those attending community events throughout the year. Detailed design and procurement will now begin, with projects rolling out in phases over the coming months.
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