WOKING charity LinkAble, which supports people with a learning disability and autistic people, has officially opened its newly renovated outdoor play area following a community fundraising appeal that far exceeded expectations.

Since 2013, hundreds of children and young people with additional needs have played, learned and made friends in this much-loved space at LinkAble’s premises on Board School Road.

Over the years, however, wear and tear left the area in need of significant repair, a scale of work that would normally be out of reach for a small charity such as LinkAble.

LinkAble had originally planned a modest refresh, but the local community had other ideas. The charity's “An Inclusive Space for Play” appeal raised a total of £35,685, allowing LinkAble to go back to the drawing board and plan a full renovation instead.

The project involved clearing deep-rooted trees and old wooden structures before the whole site could be resurfaced with a safe, accessible surface, free from trip hazards and suitable for wheelchairs.

The finished space now includes trike-friendly flooring with a racetrack, creative wall art, learning tools such as chalkboards and mirrors, imaginative play zones including a sandpit and mud kitchen, and a shaded area for hot weather. A new nest swing has already proven a firm favourite with attendees.

Funders attended the opening ceremony to see the children enjoying the new space first-hand.

David Colbeck, president of Woking District Rotary Club said: "We have supported LinkAble with various projects in recent years and consider that it is a very worthwhile cause in Woking. We were delighted to be able to fund equipment for its new playground this year."

Simon Elliott, National Highways senior project manager, said: “We are thrilled to have supported the transformation of this playground and it’s brilliant to see so many children enjoying the new space.

“This is a perfect example of how the National Highways Community Legacy Fund can go towards a project that will benefit local communities for many years to come.”

Helyn Clack, Surrey County Council cabinet member for children, families and lifelong learning, said: “Surrey County Council is delighted to have supported LinkAble with funding from the Department for Education's Childcare Expansion Capital Grant to help refurbish its playground facilities.

“The playground refurbishment will enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of the environment, enabling more children with a wider range of needs to benefit from the provision and enjoy high-quality play opportunities."

Sue Stockman, CEO of LinkAble, said: "We were blown away by the response to our appeal. The impact of this generosity will be felt by local families for many years to come.

“Every child with a learning disability and autism deserves to play and have fun with their friends in a space that is safe and can meet their needs. Our community has shown how much it cares about people LinkAble supports”.

The renovation was made possible thanks to generous support from National Highways, Surrey County Council's Wraparound Care Fund, The Morrisons Foundation, Woking Lions, Woking District Rotary Club, and everyone who donated to the online appeal.