New play area takes big step forward after arson attack

Plans to create a gleaming new play space at Anchorsholme Park are moving forward after vandals wrecked the play area in a mindless attack last year.

Residents can look forward to an exciting new future for their much-loved playground at the park, as a major redevelopment project is being designed by local children, for local children.

Following the devastating arson attack that destroyed the iconic play ship, the centrepiece of Anchorsholme Park playground, many residents feared that a treasured community asset had been lost forever.

However, thanks to the determination of local ward councillors, community groups and Blackpool Council, the playground is now set to be reborn bigger and better than ever.

The ambitious project is being led by ward councillors Anita Cooper and Paul Galley in partnership with Blackpool Council and will follow a five-stage process to ensure the new playground truly reflects the wishes of local families.

The first stage has already been successfully completed, with pupils from Anchorsholme Academy taking part in workshops to share their ideas, imagination and aspirations for the new playground. 

The second stage will see those ideas passed to specialist playground manufacturers who will develop a number of exciting design concepts based directly on the children’s suggestions.

Once the designs have been produced, residents, families and the schoolchildren themselves will be invited to review the proposals and provide feedback, ensuring the community has a genuine voice in the final outcome.

Following this consultation process, a winning design will be selected in November 2026 before moving into manufacture.

Installation of the new playground is scheduled to take place during Spring 2027.

In addition to the replacement of the main play area, the Friends of Anchorsholme Park will be delivering the refurbishment and enhancement of the remaining playground equipment as part of the wider project. 

Councillor Paul Galley said: “The arson attack was heartbreaking for many local families. The play ship was a much-loved feature of the park and its loss was felt across the community.

‘’However, out of that disappointment has come an opportunity to create something truly outstanding for our children and grandchildren. What makes this project special is that local children are helping to design it themselves.

“The new playground will stand as a symbol of a community coming together, listening to its young people and creating something even better than what was lost.”

Councillor Anita Cooper, chairman of the Friends group. added: “We wanted local young people to be at the heart of this project, and the ideas they have already produced have been fantastic.

“This is about creating a playground that inspires adventure, imagination and fun for years to come. We are grateful to everyone involved, including Anchorsholme Academy, the Friends of Anchorsholme Park, Blackpool Council and the many residents who continue to support the park.”

Residents are encouraged to watch for further announcements later this year when the design options are unveiled and public consultation begins.

The two boys were arrested on January 15 on suspicion of arson. Blackpool Council said its CCTV team worked closely with police, sharing footage from the park that proved crucial to the investigation.