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Press Release

8 March 2022

Wheelchair swing to be installed at Holly Hill

Fareham Borough Council is pleased to announce that a wheelchair swing will be coming soon to Holly Hill play area, situated next to Holly Hill Leisure Centre.

Responding to feedback from local residents, an ‘integration swing’ will be installed in late spring to meet the needs of wheelchair users. The swing allows the operator to use the suspended rope and pulley to swing themselves or have someone else push them to create the motion. The swing will add important play value to the play area which already features a range of inclusive equipment such as a roundabout, sensory play panels and a basket swing for children as well as an accessible picnic table.

The swing can only be used by those in wheelchairs and will be locked to ensure that it is kept safe. Those wishing to use the swing can access it using a RADAR key and residents can request these by calling the Council on 01329 236100 or emailing customerservicecentre@fareham.gov.uk.

A key will also be available all day, every day from the Holly Hill Leisure Centre reception desk. The leisure centre also features equipment for all ages and abilities, accessible parking, and a fully accessible Changing Places facility, making the Holly Hill play area the ideal location for the wheelchair swing.

Executive Member for Leisure and Community, Cllr Sue Walker, said: “I am delighted that we are going to be installing the Borough’s first wheelchair swing at the Holly Hill play area in the spring. This comes after listening to feedback from residents to myself and my fellow Councillors and is an important step to make our play areas as interactive and inclusive as possible, so that all children can play together. This swing closes a gap for people who find it more difficult to participate at public playgrounds.”

Local mother Alexandra Bufton, whose daughter Doris is a wheelchair user, added: “The thought of having an accessible swing at Holly Hill play area is so exciting! It is our favourite park as it caters for all ages of children, my eldest loves the gym equipment as well as the zip line, the parking is fantastic with lots of disabled spaces, and it has a lovely natural ‘outdoorsy’ feel to it. To be able to let Doris join in will be incredible. To give a child with sensory issues, who is normally stuck in her wheelchair, the movement and feeling of freedom will be wonderful.”

ENDS