Grimsby’s newest attraction, the state-of-the-art recreational facility, has incited a wave of excitement throughout the East Marsh community. PlayZone, located in Grant Thorold Park, is set to be a dynamic hub for locals, providing a multi-use games area for sports like basketball and football. The renowned actor and Grimsby local, Thomas Turgoose, best known for ‘This Is England’, praised this facility as ‘wonderful’ during the inaugural ceremony. Observing the excitement among local children, he stressed the significance of establishing a secure environment for expression and activity.
The official opening of PlayZone was performed by Councillor Steve Beasant, the Mayor of North East Lincolnshire, accompanied by distinguished guests, including Turgoose, who holds nostalgic memories of the nearby Shalom Youth Centre. Being managed by the youth centre, the facility maintains a focus on free community access, using an online booking system for equitable usage.
Canon John Ellis, the Youth Centre’s creator, shared his anticipation for the PlayZone, emphasising its potential to engage children, even during school holidays. Beth Wharton, Grimsby Town ladies striker, lauded the facility, highlighting its role in endorsing physical and mental health, and bolstering local girls’ football.
Funded by the Football Foundation, Safer Streets, and NELC, the project transformed a formerly abandoned area. Councillor Hayden Dawkins labelled the PlayZone, a ‘remarkable refurbishment’, promoting community engagement and active lifestyles. Meanwhile, Robert Sullivan, CEO of the Football Foundation, hailed the project as a progressive move for local grassroots facilities, underscoring its beneficial impact on health and community integration.
This story was rewritten by The Lincoln Post based on original reporting by www.grimsbytelegraph.co.uk.
