Children, families, and residents in Exton are celebrating a major milestone following the announcement of a £69,467 grant from the FCC Communities Foundation. The funding guarantees the delivery of a brand-new, modern village play park, completely transforming the existing space into a safer, more inclusive, and deeply engaging environment for outdoor recreation.
The successful funding bid represents a massive victory for the community, driven heavily by the tireless efforts of Playground Action Group Exton (PAGE). The volunteer-led group took charge of the initiative after widespread feedback from local families highlighted how limited the village’s current play facilities had become. To ensure the new park truly serves everyone, PAGE spent months gathering input through household and schoolchildren’s surveys, public consultations, and direct feedback from residents, local businesses, and the Parish Council.
Ruth Pollard, the Chair of PAGE, emphasised that the impact of this grant stretches far beyond standard playground infrastructure. She noted that local families have long expressed the need for a welcoming space where children can stay active and build friendships safely. Pollard expressed immense gratitude to the FCC Communities Foundation, adding that the project is ultimately about supporting children’s long-term wellbeing, encouraging active lifestyles, and fostering a much stronger sense of belonging across the entire village.
While the £69,467 grant from the FCC Communities Foundation provides the major financial backing required to break ground, the project is also a testament to remarkable local generosity. Alongside the grant, PAGE successfully raised more than £11,000 entirely through community events, which was further bolstered by financial contributions from the Exton Parish Council and local corporate donors.
This collective dedication caught the attention of local leaders and the grant providers alike. Kiloran Heckels, Chair of the Exton Parish Council, praised the determination of the PAGE team and congratulated the village on demonstrating what can be achieved when an entire community unites behind a shared goal. Cheryl Raynor, Grant Manager for the FCC Communities Foundation which awards funding through the Landfill Communities Fund echoed these sentiments, expressing delight in backing a project so deeply rooted in local collaboration.
With all the necessary funding now officially locked in, the village can finally look forward to the construction phase. If everything goes according to plan, PAGE hopes the vibrant new play area will be fully completed and ready for families to enjoy by Autumn 2026.
