News: An End to Play Time?

The previous UK government introduced a 235 Million Pound scheme to build children's playgrounds across the country.  I read in the London Evening Standard today that 3500 playgrounds were planned, (with 1300 due to be in place by 2011) but those plans have been shelved due to the current government scrapping the scheme as part of their budget cuts.

I personally benefit from one of these playgrounds for my own natural movement workouts (in Ravenscourt Park, London) and I see lots of children and families using and benefiting from the resources.  This playground was completed recently so was built prior to the cuts. 

  Ravenscourt Park

Of course savings need to be made in certain areas.  But it is unfortunate that a short sighted cut, will not only jeopardise the only opportunity most of these children have to increase activity levels.  Playtime is not just about video games.

The true cost is society bearing the brunt of future child-related healthcare costs due to inactivity, a much greater cost to us all.

A real shame.

"Lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being"- Plato