AN official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place recently at Craddock Close in Holsworthy after the green space has been given a much-needed revamp.

A company called DCH, who provide homes for people who need them and help create communities, has worked together with a number of local authorities and groups to redevelop the green space at Craddock Close to create a more attractive and useful community space — whilst providing a safe play space for children.

Working in partnership on the project were DCH, Holsworthy Town Council, Torridge District Council, Holsworthy Area Children’s Centre, Holsworthy Police, Holsworthy Primary School and the Race and Equality Council.

Torridge District Council and DCH jointly funded the project and took the previously unused green space and created an informal and safe play area for children and families in the local community to use.

Cllr Jane Whittaker, leader of Torridge District Council, said: “I’m really pleased that Torridge Council were able to lay a small part in this project. The level of community involvement has been fantastic and the project will clearly have a lasting legacy that everyone can enjoy for many years to come.”

Many local residents also helped to create the new space, getting involved in the consultation process and providing vital local input, ideas and feedback during the initial design and final planning process.

Local residents also took part in site visits and many families were involved with work carried out on the site — specifically with the planting of shrubs and plants.

Paul Marshall, DCH director of community engagement, said: “What’s so impressive is that local people have really been inspired by this new space and taken real ownership of it.

“I was amazed by the sense of community there and also the knowledge of the young people about plants, the space and their environment.”

The project was completed with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open event, where all those who were involved with the project came together to celebrate the communities new asset.

On the day 28 local residents visited the new area, giving them a chance to get to know their neighbors. Also in attendance was mayor Jon Hutchings, town council handyman George Or-Wilcox, representatives from DCH and the local police force and many others who came out to see the new community asset.

Alison Knight, DCH community development worker, concluded: “The whole community was worked together to develop this lovely, informal play space for children and the local community to enjoy. I am delighted to see it open for use.”