This petition asks for:

• The restoration of Highfield Adventure Playground’s previous opening hours: from 3 to 5pm five days a week. 
• Staffing levels that allow the playground to operate safely, regularly and meaningfully.
• Full and effective use of both the renovated building and the outdoor adventure playground.
• Regular access that meets the needs of children and families, including opportunities for playground use during school holidays.

By signing this petition, you are not simply asking for the return of previous services. You are supporting the effective use and protection of an important community asset for current and future generations of children.

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Bring back full opening hours at Highfield Adventure Playground

Highfield Adventure Playground has long been a much-loved space for families in Sharrow and the surrounding community. For many children, it has provided something particularly valuable: a safe, inclusive and stimulating place where they can play freely, make friends, explore and grow.

Recent reductions in the playground’s opening hours and staffing have significantly limited access to this important community resource, with a particular impact on families who may have fewer alternative opportunities for safe outdoor play.

• What was available before: playground open from 3 until 5pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend use. 
• What is available now: playground open from 3.30 to 4.30pm, only twice a week. No weekends.

A renovated playground should be a playground children CAN use

The building has recently been renovated, which makes the current limited use of the outdoor playground particularly disappointing. At present, the outdoor playground space is being used for play for only around one hour during the week. The nearby outdoor playground is also being renovated, with works being delayed by at least 2 months.

At present, children have gone from having promises of two new spaces being built in the area to none they can use.  

Investment in the Highfield Adventure playground building was welcomed with excitement, but a renovated facility cannot fulfil its potential if the children and families it was created for have very limited opportunities to use the playground itself.

The reduction in opening hours and staffing affects not only access but also the experience available to children. Dedicated staff have historically played a vital role in coordinating, ensuring the safety and supporting activities while maintaining a welcoming, inclusive and safe environment.

We want to give special recognition to Lucy for her exceptional dedication, commitment and support to Sharrow families. Lucy consistently goes above and beyond, providing a level of care and reassurance that has made a genuine difference to both children and their parents. Families see Lucy as a highly trusted and valued member of staff, and feel safe in her ability to create and manage a safe, welcoming and supportive space.