Newcastle: Campaign to raise £20,000 to repair Leazes Park play area

A fundraising drive has been launched to repair a dilapidated children's play area in Newcastle's oldest park.

Currently, Leazes Park play area is cordoned off after being deemed unsafe.

Charity and parks manager Urban Green Newcastle said £20,000 was needed to fund repairs. It is planning a fundraiser on 23 December.

Northern Lights Newcastle, which is hosting a Christmas Lights trail in Leazes Park this winter, has already pledged to donate up to £10,000.

The organisation, which promises to transform the grounds of Leazes Park "into a breathtaking journey through a spectrum of illuminations, sculptures and special affects" from 23 November-1 January, said it would match donations made when people bought tickets for the event online, up to £10,000.

The Urban Green fundraising event on 23 December will mark Leazes Park's 150th anniversary and will feature a choir alongside immersive lights from the trail.

Northern Lights event director Roxy Robinson said: "We are thrilled to launch this fundraiser to repair play equipment at Leazes Park.

"Free-to-access play areas are so important for local families."

Urban Green took over management of the city's parks from Newcastle City Council in 2019.

Chief executive Carol Pyrah said: "We know from feedback that families and visitors really care about play areas.

"I'm delighted we're working in partnership with Northern Lights Newcastle to launch a fundraising campaign to revitalise the play area, providing children and young people with a safe and enjoyable place to play."

Just under £1,500 has been raised so far, the Local Democracy Reporting Service said.

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