4 Nov

Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Start of New Multi-Use Games Area at Mansfield Park

South Bridgwater Councillors Redman, Mander Pearce, Smedley and Leavy attend the groundbreaking ceremony at Mansfield Park

Work is officially underway on a brand-new Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) at Mansfield Park, following a groundbreaking ceremony held on-site this week. The new facility will complement the existing play area and provide a versatile space for sports and recreation, including football, basketball, and other activities. Designed to be accessible and inclusive, the MUGA will offer local residents of all ages a safe and modern environment to stay active and enjoy outdoor exercise. The tender for the project was awarded to leading playground specialists, Kompan, with local sub-contractor Somerset Landscapes currently on site carrying out groundworks.The project is led by Bridgwater Town Council and aims to breathe new life into Mansfield Park, creating an inclusive and accessible space for families, children, and young people in the Hamp community.

The redevelopment will include:

  • High-quality, modern play and sports equipment
  • A brand-new Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA)
  • Upgraded football facilities

Ground is well and truly broken

Funding in place

The project has been made possible thanks to funding from the Hinkley Point C (HPC) Community Fund, managed by Somerset Community Foundation. In addition, the Hamp Community Association (HCA) pledged financial support specifically towards the installation of the MUGA and new play equipment, demonstrating strong community backing for the initiative.

The Mayor of Bridgwater and Bridgwater Town Council ward councillors attended the ceremony to mark the beginning of the project, which is expected to be completed by Christmas (weather permitting). Mayor of Bridgwater is Cllr Kathy Pearce who is also the County Council ward councillor for Bridgwater South along with Leader of Bridgwater Town Council Brian Smedley.

Improving Local Amenities

Bridgwater Town Council parks officer Marina Turner discusses the plans with ward councillors

Tim Mander, Chair of the Town Council Amenities Committee said, “This new addition to Mansfield Park reflects our ongoing commitment to improving local amenities and promoting healthy lifestyles. The MUGA will be a valuable asset for families, young people, and sports groups in the area.”

Bridgwater Town Council’s Hamp Ward Councillors, Liz Leavy and Leigh Redman, added, “We’re delighted to see this project moving forward. It’s a fantastic example of partnership working and investment in our community.”

HCA Backing

Cllr Leigh Redman , secretary of Hamp Community Association who back the project

Cllr Leigh Redman, Secretary for Hamp Community Association said “The Hamp Community Association is thrilled to be part of this development. The new MUGA will make a real difference for young people in Hamp – providing a much-needed space for play, sport, and connection. Our community has been involved from the very beginning, and we can’t wait to see it open.”

Enhancing local parks

The new MUGA marks a significant step in Bridgwater Town Council’s wider commitment to enhancing local parks and open spaces. Once complete, Mansfield Park will offer residents a space where people of all ages can come together to be active, social and enjoy their local environment.

Leader of Bridgwater Town Council, Cllr Brian Smedley said “Once more this shows why it’s important for these major projects to come from and have the backing of the local community and the council closest to that community. Town Council’s commitment to Hamp has been consistent and this is the second major project we have kick started. The other being the revival and re-opening of the recreation building which was falling into disrepair and neglect until we intervened to take it directly under our control.”

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