Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge Town Council says it is “disappointed” to confirm that the proposed project to install a play area on the town’s Esplanade will not be going ahead.
Somerset Council, the landowners, have confirmed this week that they are unable to give permission for the equipment to be installed due to a legal objection from residents in Quantock Court.
A spokesperson for Somerset Council said: “Somerset Council were unable to progress the joint initiative from the Burnham Evolution Project because of a covenant on the land at South Esplanade, opposite Quantock Court, which had originally been identified for a play area.”
“Somerset Council is working with Burnham-On-Sea Town Council to identify other sites in Burnham-On-Sea where the play equipment can be utilised but will not be actively involved in installing or maintaining the equipment in the future.”
The plans were the last part of the Burnham Evolution Project to be completed, which was being funded through the Hinkley Point C Community Impact Mitigation (CIM) Fund.
The Burnham Evolution Project included the seawall art installation, refurbishment of seafront street furniture and improvements to The Princess Theatre.
Councillor Lesley Millard, Mayor of Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge, said last night: “The Town Council are disappointed that the original plan for the play equipment cannot be realised, but we will be working with Somerset Council to enhance the play areas within the Town with equipment that had been allocated for the Esplanade play area.”
“The Town Council would like to thank all those who have been involved with the project over the past few years and especially the CIM Funding Board.”
A spokesperson from Quantock Court adds: “We welcome the news that Somerset Council and the Town Council have decided to shelve the plan to create a children’s play area on the recreational area opposite the Quantock Court residential flats, recognising the fact that a covenant exists established by the original owners of the land. It is also welcomed because the many local people who exercise in the recreational area will be able to continue with their activities which benefits all age groups.”
The seafront play area had originally been proposed for the concrete area opposite Quantock Court and was due to be installed in 2021, however residents launched a legal objection, as reported here. This led to the play area’s location being changed to further along the seafront onto the lawns opposite the Haven Holiday park entrance instead which did not proceed.
