Blyth Town Councillors gathered yesterday under clear summer skies to officially open the newly refurbished Cottingwood Green play area, following a £100,000 investment aimed at revitalising the much-loved community space.

The project was agreed in January 2025 along with the refurbishment of St. John's MUGA which opened a couple of months ago.

Mayor Councillor David Swinhoe had the honour of cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

“It is fantastic to see the results of this vision come to life for the benefit of families across Blyth and the Newsham ward,” said Cllr Swinhoe.

He added, “It’s a real joy to see children laughing and playing here again. This is what community spaces are all about—bringing people together and creating memories. It’s up to the residents of Benridge Park to keep an eye on its success. Your feedback is appreciated on its use.”

The play area, designed and installed by Wicksteed Playgrounds, now boasts an impressive range of new equipment catering to children of all ages. Highlights include a toddler climbing frame, a larger junior-to-adult climbing structure, a roundabout, swings, and a buddy board. To enhance safety and accessibility, the surfacing has been upgraded to a mix of wetpour and turf, ensuring year-round usability.

Families were already making the most of the new amenities at the time of the opening, including families visiting from Cramlington and Bedlington with the sound of laughter and play underscoring the success of the redevelopment.

Town Councillors Rick Baker, Deirdre Campbell, Barry Elliott, David Johnson, Kath Nisbet MBE, Mark Peart, Natalie Rolls, and the General Services Officer David Clough were in attendance with the mayor, marking the culmination of a community-driven effort to improve local recreational facilities.

The revamped Cottingwood Green is now set to serve as a vibrant, inclusive space where children and families can enjoy active play for years to come.