Hoxton Playgrounds Locked for Years as Councillor Launches Campaign

Children's play areas on the Wenlock Barn Estate in Hoxton have been locked shut, with some remaining inaccessible for several years. Labour councillor Ben Lucas has launched a campaign titled 'Unlocking Play' to demand the reopening of these vital community spaces.

Two play areas on the estate are currently inaccessible. One has been closed for over a year, while the other has been shut for several years. Councillor Lucas stated that families in the area are being forced to look at locked gates while playgrounds fall into disrepair, particularly during school holidays when many families lack private gardens.

Specific Closures and Reasons

Buxton Gardens has been closed for more than a year. The Hackney Citizen reported that foxes burrowed beneath the safety surfacing, creating a trip hazard. Bletchley Court play space has been shut for considerably longer. This closure is due to timber equipment failing a Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents inspection, indicating deterioration and unsafety.

During a full council meeting on 28 July, Deputy Mayor Dylan Law addressed the issue. He informed councillors that repair works at Buxton Gardens had been ordered and were expected to be completed shortly. Following these repairs, the space would be assessed for reopening. For Bletchley Court, Councillor Law explained that the extended closure was because the timber equipment required a more substantial solution than routine repair. He stated he had asked officers to collaborate with the Wenlock Barn tenant management organisation and residents to develop a plan and determine the necessary investment for this site. A timeline will be established once an agreement is reached.

Councillor Lucas expressed satisfaction that campaign pressure had led to a council commitment for Buxton Gardens. However, he emphasised that the work is not finished. He launched 'Unlocking Play' to achieve the same outcome for every locked space in Hoxton West, stating his commitment until the gates are reopened for community use.

Councillor Lucas is currently consulting residents of Hoxton West regarding their access to local play spaces. The closures on Wenlock Barn Estate occurred during a period when Labour previously ran Hackney Council, which held the Town Hall until May of this year.