Colchester’s ParkPlay will soon be coming to Greenstead, following its successful launch in Old Heath in August. The public is invited to come along to Hickory Avenue Playground on Saturday, 1 October, from 12pm to 2pm, to find out more and get involved.
ParkPlay is about building stronger, healthier, connected communities through the life-changing power of play.
ParkPlay launched in Spring 2021 to encourage everyone to be a little more active and to bring communities together. Since then, with the support of partners such as Sport England – and despite the disruption of the pandemic – 35 ParkPlays have been launched across the UK and regularly welcome over 4,000 participants on Saturday mornings.
ParkPlay is run by the local community, for the local community, and serves as a perfect launchpad into the weekend – offering two hours of play, for free, every Saturday.
With active and inclusive games, enabling all generations to play together, ParkPlay offers a safe, welcoming, and inclusive way for people to connect and have fun. Everyone is invited!
Residents attending the Greenstead ParkPlay launch event will also be able to find out more about Essex Pedal Power, which will be coming to the area in the Autumn. Essex Pedal Power is a community-based cycling project that enables eligible residents over the age of 16 to loan a new bike, free of charge, for an initial period of six months.
Chloe and Francesca Townsend, aka the Townsend Twins, who launched the Old Heath ParkPlay, will also be supporting Greenstead ParkPlay.
Chloe and Francesca Townsend, said: “We are really excited to host the second ParkPlay in Colchester and are looking forward to the local community joining in with some fun games that are suitable for everyone.
“The great thing about ParkPlay is that everyone can join in as little or as much as they like. Why not come and meet new people, whilst enjoying fresh air and having fun. There are so many benefits to exercising outdoors: it’s great for relieving stress, boosting your mental health and your immune system, and can even boost your self-esteem!”
Cllr Julie Young, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Communities, added: “ParkPlay is a fantastic way to begin the weekend and get active. There are no fitness requirements and it’s completely free!
“With autumn approaching and people facing increasing cost of living pressures, ParkPlay provides a wonderful opportunity to entertain the whole family whilst helping those who might otherwise be inactive to enjoy the benefits of physical activity.
“I would encourage everyone in Greenstead – young and old – to come along to Hickory Avenue Playground on Saturday, 1 October, to find out more and get involved.”
Supported by Colchester Borough Council and Active Essex, ParkPlay Greenstead is funded by the Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board and complements NHS work to support people to have healthy, active lifestyles, and achieve a reduction in the number of people developing long term conditions such as cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes. Physical activity also supports good mental health.
Page last reviewed: 27 September 2022