Leicester’s adventure playgrounds receive a year’s funding reprieve after concerns arose about proposed budget cuts.
They announced a change of plans at the last minute. The city will now fund them for another year! This happened right before a budget meeting. Concerns arose within the council about the cuts. LeicestershireLive asked about the playground funding.
A council member called the cuts a threat to kids. He said the playgrounds are safe spaces. Closing them would hurt families.
Some people think the funding extension is just temporary.
It doesn’t fix the long-term problem. They want lasting solutions for the playgrounds. Another person is happy but still worried. They said playgrounds were vital for kids.
They will help the playgrounds going forward somehow. The council said this gives the playgrounds more time. They need to become self-sufficient. Some playgrounds are doing well already.
The council recognizes how important the playgrounds are. They will help them find funding long-term. The playgrounds also got a free license for five years. The council needs to save money somehow.
They are delaying projects and halting some hiring. They must balance the budget by law. Large service cuts are also expected.