Young people help shape new outdoor fitness facilities for Braishfield
Young people in Braishfield are set to see their ideas become reality after Test Valley Borough Council’s Community Delivery Fund awarded £6,812.30 towards new outdoor fitness equipment on the village recreation ground.
The project has been developed by Cllr Sally Yalden and Braishfield Parish Council in response to feedback from local residents and young people, who highlighted the loss of the village’s former wooden fitness trail after it was removed due to ongoing maintenance costs. Since then, many residents have missed having outdoor exercise equipment, particularly younger people who felt there were limited opportunities for them to meet, exercise and spend time together in the village.
The new facilities include four pieces of outdoor fitness equipment in a central location on the recreation ground. Importantly, the equipment has been selected by young people themselves following consultation and engagement work carried out through the village’s NextGen project. Designed for year-round use and located in a freely accessible public space, the equipment will provide a long-term community asset for residents of all ages.
The NextGen project was launched after discussions with community leaders highlighted the importance of involving younger residents in decisions about the future of the village. Young people aged 11 to 16 identified improved outdoor facilities as one of their priorities and presented their findings to the parish council and local residents, receiving strong support from the community.
Councillor Stewart MacDonald, Test Valley Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Community Led Projects said; “Community-led projects are at the heart of the Community Delivery Fund, and this is a fantastic example of local people shaping the future of their village. What makes this project particularly special is that it began with young people sharing their ideas and aspirations for Braishfield, and those ideas have been listened to and acted upon.
“The new fitness equipment will create opportunities for people of all ages to be active, support physical and mental wellbeing, and provide a place where young people can come together. Just as importantly, it sends a powerful message that when young residents get involved and have their say, they can help bring about positive change in their community.”
Councillor Sally Yalden said; “I was fortunate to be involved in the conversations with young people that helped inspire this project, so it's wonderful to see their ideas being turned into something tangible for the community.
“The young people who took part spoke passionately about wanting more opportunities to meet, spend time outdoors and be active. By working together, the parish council, local residents and the Community Delivery Fund have helped make that vision a reality. I hope the equipment is enjoyed by generations of Braishfield residents for years to come.”
Councillor Ian Knights, Vice Chairman Braishfield Parish Council, said; "We're delighted to receive this funding and see this project moving forward. The loss of the original fitness trail was felt by many residents, and replacing it has been a priority for the parish council for some time.
“What makes this project particularly meaningful is that the equipment has been chosen with input from local young people. Their enthusiasm and ideas have helped shape the proposals, and we're grateful to everyone who supported the project along the way. We look forward to seeing the new facilities installed and enjoyed by residents of all ages.”
The Community Delivery Fund supports community-led projects across Test Valley that strengthen local communities, build resilience and create lasting benefits for residents.