Protest calls on plans to remove play staff (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Protest calls on plans to remove play staff

11:00am Sunday 8th July 2012 in News By Alice Austin

A protest will is taking place calling attention to council plans to remove play staff from adventure playgrounds.

A council meeting on July 11 is expected to confirm previous decisions to remove staff from the adventure playgrounds and replace equipment.

The demonstration has been organised by Wandsworth Against Cuts (WAC) and playground users who want to retain the staff in Kimber Road, York Gardens and Battersea Park Adventure playgrounds.

Facilities have been around for 40 years and provide a safe and controlled environment for young children to spend time after school and in holidays.

Norman MacLean, speaking on behalf of WAC, said: "Families, young people and their supporters who are fighting to save Wandsworth's adventure playground service will take part in a symbolic, peaceful protest outside Battersea Park Adventure Playground."

It was announced earlier this year that by removing staff and replacing equipment the council will make a saving of about £147,000 a year.

The protests will take place on July 10 in Battersea Park Adventure Playground at 4:30pm, and on July 11 outside Wandsworth Town Hall at 6:30pm and in the gallery at 7:30pm.

For more information go to www.wandsworthagainstcuts.co.uk