AFTER two years of fundraising, a village organisation has finally secured the final grant it needs to renovate a much-loved playground.

Viridor Credits has dished out �12,800 to the Debden Recreation Ground Trust so that work can begin on installing brand new play equipment and seating areas opposite the village Primary School.

The new area, which costs �57,000 in total, will be a hub for the community and will replace the recreation ground’s current facilities as they are to be demolished and cleared.

April Gardner, who has led the fundraising efforts, as well as choosing the design of the new play area, said: “We’re delighted to receive the final amount of funding we need to carry out this fantastic project.

“The area is used daily by the pre-school and primary school as well as many local residents, but will benefit hugely from the redesign and refurbishment – we can’t wait to start work.”

Centrally located, the recreation ground is an integral part of the community and is in use every day. The re-development will benefit a large section of the community as it is already a popular area with families spanning all generations.

In addition the trust hopes to put in two pieces of equipment which can be used for children with disabilities.

Viridor Credits is a charity that distributes landfill tax credits making them available for environmental, conservation and community projects.

General manager Lisa Nelson said: “Over the years we have distributed over �70 million and supported over 1000 community and environmental projects across the UK.

“The Debden Recreation Ground Trust’s redevelopment of the playground will benefit the whole community and is a great example of the kind of projects that can be supported by LCF monies.”

Debden recreation ground is just over five miles from the Elsenham landfill site near Bishops Stortford which is run by Viridor.

It’s proximity to the site makes the playground eligible for funds from the independent charity and they are looking for further projects located within 10 miles of Viridor managed landfill sites.

Community groups should either visit viridor-credits.co.uk, call 01823 624656, e-mail enquiries@viridor-credits.co.uk or write to Viridor Credits Environmental Company, Aintree House, Blackbrook Park Avenue, Taunton, Somerset TA1 2PX.