The MUGA, located within the grounds of the town’s 800-year-old castle keep, has undergone upgrades to enhance its facilities. Ribble Valley Borough Council consulted with local young people to gather their views on the design and offerings as part of a wider community consultation.
Council officers collaborated with members of the local Targeted Youth Service Youth Council. Many participants were regular users of the MUGA or the adjacent skatepark. Suggestions incorporated into the final design included better surfacing and clearer line markings for various sports.
Councillor Stuart Hirst, chairman of the council’s community services committee, expressed gratitude for the young people's "brilliant suggestions" and their "genuine and well thought out" ideas, noting that while some, like a "Ninja warrior course", were not practical, all feedback was valued.
Youth worker Tracy Spearing highlighted the positive experience for the Youth Council, enabling them to engage with peers and represent their voices. She added that it provided insight into local council operations and communication skills, with the council thoroughly enjoying seeing the project's progression.
Further park improvements include a £100,000 outdoor gym with 13 accessible pieces of equipment, installed on former tennis courts. Plans are also in place to upgrade the skatepark, and improvements to the park’s bandstand are expected next month. These works are part of a £2.3 million investment programme by Ribble Valley Borough Council to enhance the castle and park for future generations.
