Plans to relaunch ‘improved’ Anchorsholme Park after arson attack

Plans are moving forward to replace the destroyed play ship at Anchorsholme Park, as part of a wider relaunch of the park following an arson attack.

A plan has now been agreed with Blackpool Council to invite five leading playground manufacturers to design a new play ship that will become the centrepiece of a transformed playground for local families.

The play area was torched on  December 28 last year in a mindless attack which upset and angered local residents. Two boys aged 15 and 16 were arrested last month on suspicion of arson and inquiries remain ongoing. 

Anchorsholme Councillor and Chair of the Friends of Anchorsholme Park, Cllr Anita Cooper said: “Following the recent arson attack, which was deeply upsetting for the community, we are determined not only to repair the damage but to come back even stronger. 

“With two arrests now made, we can focus on the future and on creating something really positive for local children and families.

“We’ve agreed a plan with the Council to invite five playground manufacturers to come up with imaginative designs for a brand-new play ship that will transform the playground. 

“Once those designs are ready, we’ll be taking them into local schools so children can give their ideas and tell us which one they love the most.”

The designs will be shared with local primary schools, giving children the opportunity to help shape the final playground. 

Community open days will also be held at Anchorsholme Park and Anchorsholme Library so residents can view the proposals and share their views.

Cllr Paul Galley, who also represents Anchorsholme added: “We want this to be a playground designed with local children and families, not just for them. 

“We’ll be holding open days in the park and at the library so everyone can see the designs, share ideas and help choose the winning play ship. 

“Once selected, the chosen manufacturer will move forward with designing, building and installing the new playground.

”The project is also being linked to wider improvements across the park, including efforts to introduce lighting in the playground area and explore renewable energy solutions for the café, such as solar panels and a wind turbine.

Cllr Cooper added:“This is about more than just replacing what was lost, it’s about creating something even better for Anchorsholme. “We’re looking at lighting to make the play area safer and more welcoming, as well as renewable energy projects like solar panels and a wind turbine for the café. 

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to relaunch the park and make it a real community destination.”

“The aim is for the new playground and associated improvements to be completed by April 2027.

Cllr Galley added:“We’re aiming to have everything installed by April 2027, so it’s going to be a busy year as we work with residents, schools and partners to make all this happen. 

“This is a great opportunity to relaunch Anchorsholme Park and create something really special that the whole community can be proud of and take an awful thing and make it a good thing for our community.”