The Guernsey Wooden Spoon charity and the Environment & Infrastructure Committee have been hit by one difficulty after another on the project to install a new web since it arrived in the island more than two years ago.
Recent meetings have found a way forward to complete the preparatory works which are necessary because the new web differs from the previous one, which was removed on safety grounds.
‘The spider’s web that was donated by Wooden Spoon through people’s donations has different fittings to the previous one, so colleagues have carried out work to understand what needs changing for this to be installed,’ said David Hubert, the States’ natural environment team leader.
‘We recently had a very productive meeting with Wooden Spoon, who are happy to support this installation work, and we look forward to meeting with them again soon to discuss the next steps.’
The years-long delay is the result of unforeseen challenges with the design and location of the new climbing frame and differences about who should address them and how.
The apparatus was purchased with local donations believed to be of a value close to £14,000.
It is understood that a way forward was found this week only after it was agreed that any taxpayers’ contribution would be kept to a minimum.
The latest discussions also included reaching provisional agreement about where in the playground the new web will be situated, after the location of the previous one was found to be problematic.
Following several false starts, fundraisers and the States declined to estimate when the new web would be installed and opened.
‘A positive meeting was held in the park where proposals have been made about where the spider’s web will be situated,’ said Wooden Spoon chairwoman Karen Solway.
‘There are some preparatory works needed and planning permission to be sorted out, but it is felt that this will be achieved relatively quickly, and the appetite is to get the equipment installed as soon as possible.
‘Although no installation date is confirmed, positive steps forward have been made.
‘We are disappointed that it has taken this long as we know children and young people would really like this apparatus. We will be excited to let everyone know when the works will commence and when the web will be in place.’
The previous climbing frame was well used by children for two decades before being removed in October 2023.
Fundraisers said during their successful effort to raise money that the new climbing frame should have a lifespan of about 15 years.
It is understood that it is being stored on States land while it awaits installation.
Until recently, the spider’s web climbing frame was only one of several pieces of equipment missing or out of action at the playground, but E&I has now made improvements.
‘We have recently carried out repairs to the see-saw and the zip wire, so we’re pleased that these are back in action for children to enjoy,’ said Mr Hubert.
‘The only piece of equipment that is currently unavailable is one of the toddler swings, which is in need of a replacement, but there are several other identical swings which remain available.’
A major inspection is carried out annually at the playground and maintenance staff can raise any issues with E&I in between annual inspections.
‘We also welcome feedback from members of the public if they notice something that doesn’t look right,’ said Mr Hubert.
‘It is brilliant that the playground at Saumarez Park is so popular. This means that there’s a lot of wear and tear of equipment which requires regular maintenance, replacement and upkeep.’