A TOWERING new piece of play equipment at a park in St Austell, installed as part of improvements costing more than £118,600, is proving a hit with youngsters.

The bird’s nest tower, a large multi-level adventure and rope play structure designed for children aged around six and over, has been officially opened at Poltair Park by mayor Ethan Stephens.

St Austell Town Council held a public consultation back in the spring when it was considering what equipment should be bought to replace the ageing helter-skelter which had been in place at the park since 2008 and was attracting anti-social behaviour.

At the time, the council said it wanted to install something equally significant and bold that would stand out from other parks.

Mayor Ethan Stephens on the new bird's nest tower at Poltair Park. (Pictures: Paul Williams)
Mayor Ethan Stephens on the new bird's nest tower at Poltair Park. (Pictures: Paul Williams)

Following the installation of the tower, the council said: “Standing proudly within the park’s popular play area, the impressive new feature offers children the chance to climb, explore and challenge themselves through a series of engaging climbing elements before enjoying a thrilling ride down the slide.

“Designed to inspire active play, confidence and imagination, the bird’s nest tower provides a fun and inclusive space where children can develop new skills while enjoying the outdoors with friends and family.

“In addition to the bird’s nest tower, a new accessible ground trampoline has been installed in the play area.

“Both new play items form part of St Austell Town Council's ongoing investment in local parks and play facilities, helping to ensure that Poltair Park remains a welcoming destination for families across the community.”

St Austell Town Council wants to ensure Poltair Park remains an attractive destination. (Picture: Andrew Townsend)
St Austell Town Council wants to ensure Poltair Park remains an attractive destination. (Picture: Andrew Townsend)

The council has spent a total of £118,675 on the tower, the trampoline and safety surfacing.

The mayor went along to the park with his wife Hannah and their two children to officially open the new facilities.

Cllr Stephens said: “It was my pleasure to officially open the new climbing frame and spend the morning speaking with members of our community about the new play area and what it means for local families.

Mayor Ethan Stephens went along to the park with his wife Hannah and their two children to officially open the new facilities. (Picture: Paul Williams)
Mayor Ethan Stephens went along to the park with his wife Hannah and their two children to officially open the new facilities. (Picture: Paul Williams)

“It's always great to hear directly from residents, meet families enjoying the park and see investment in our community spaces bringing people together.

“Thank you to everyone involved in making this happen. I hope lots of local children enjoy many happy hours of climbing, playing and exploring here as I certainly did!

“As mayor, it’s wonderful to see our community spaces continuing to grow and improve for everyone.” 

In another development, the Poltair Park cafe is under new management and has opened under a new name, Nana Kel’s Cafe In The Park.

The cafe at Poltair Park in St Austell is under new management. (Picture: Paul Williams)
The cafe at Poltair Park in St Austell is under new management. (Picture: Paul Williams)

Before the opening, new manager Kelly said: “I am really looking forward to opening the cafe and have been busy putting menus together. So far, I have hot and cold drinks, toasties, jacket potatoes, cakes/sweet treats and some seasonal variations. I am keen to offer what people want, so please pop by and let me know what you think. If you prefer lemon cake to coffee cake – let me know and I will do my best! All ideas welcome.”