Can you tell us a little about your organisation, what inspired you to start, and its role within the local community?
Trimsaran Community Council (TCC) had plans to improve the recreation area around the Leisure Centre for many years, the area had fallen into disrepair and was no longer fit for purpose. TCC undertook several consultation studies in the local community that highlighted the need to provide a safe youth meeting space and a family space with seating and pathways, the study also showed the need to exercise free of charge and to provide a safe place for children and young people to play ball games without causing harm to other park users.
From this information TCC proceeded to build a business case for the improvements to the park that would include a Multi use games area (MUGA), bike racks, youth hut, seating and pathways as well as a outside gymnasium.
How has the UK SPF supported your organisation and what specific improvements or changes have you been able to make with the funding?
The successful application to the Shared prosperity Fund (SPF) has meant that TCC could proceed to develop the proposed plans, the project to provide outside gymnasium equipment, MUGA and youth hut as well as bike racks, seating and pathways was completed late 2024. The improvements have raised the profile of the area and provided a safe fit for purpose area for the community to enjoy.
The improvements have greatly enhanced the outlook of the community space giving people a pride of place in their area making Trimsaran a better place to live and work.
What impact has this project had on the local community so far and how have they responded to the services/improvements you've made?
The impact of providing new equipment on the community can be measured through an increase in the participation in exercise for children, young people and adults which will improve fitness and health standards, Trimsaran is an area of high deprivation and one of the key indicators is health.
The project has also had a positive visual impact on the recreation area, the seating and pathways make it welcoming for people to sit and talk and is a well-used social area while the youth hut has provided a safe place for young people to meet. The project has a positive effect on the community and has raised the confidence in the outlook and confidence of the community.
