Community · Devizes
Devizes play area project moves forward with contractor appointment
By Swindon Now Editorial Team · Published
Plans to transform the long-closed Brickley Lane play area in Devizes have reached a major milestone as the town council appoints a contractor to lead the £120,000 refurbishment.
A significant step has been taken to restore recreational space for families in Devizes, with the appointment of a preferred contractor for the much-anticipated refurbishment of the Brickley Lane play area. The site, which has been closed for two years due to safety concerns, is now set to move into a public consultation phase as part of a £120,000 redevelopment project.
Devizes Town Council’s Sustainability and Environment Committee recently approved the appointment of Wicksteed to undertake the work. The project aims to deliver a modern, safe environment, with initial groundworks and site clearance already completed to prepare the area for its new design.
The proposed scheme includes a variety of new facilities tailored for children aged seven to 12. Key features of the design include:
New steel play equipment.
Retention of the existing mound slide.
A combination of wetpour, grass matting, and turf surfacing.
Improved pathways throughout the site.
New seating, including an accessible picnic table.
Refurbished gates and updated signage.
Extensive landscaping and reinstatement works.
Cllr Maria Hoult, who has spearheaded the Brickley Lane Play Area Task Group, described the decision as a positive development for local residents. She noted that the committee selected Wicksteed for the quality of their proposal and their focus on durable, accessible equipment. The council plans to use the upcoming public consultation to engage directly with parents, children and local carers, ensuring the final layout meets the community's needs.
Sport and Play Consulting, which assisted with the tender process, has suggested that minor refinements such as the positioning of equipment and specific seating layouts may still be adjusted based on feedback from the public. If the consultation process reveals the need for significant changes, the matter will be referred back to the town council committee for further review.
Cllr Jaydon Irvine, representative for Devizes East, highlighted the importance of the project for the town's young families, acknowledging the efforts of those involved in reaching this stage. Once the public consultation is complete, the town clerk will finalise the contract with the firm to begin the delivery phase within the allocated budget.
Source: Gazette & Herald — Devizes · View original