It was all action at Woodland Way play park in Gunnislake

This week, we held a Community Action Day at Woodland Way play park in Gunnislake! Teaming up with Cormac, Cornwall Council, local councillors, and National Energy Action, we aimed to spruce up the play area and chat with residents about their homes, their estate, and all things home energy-saving. 

Year 4 pupils and their teachers from nearby Copper Valley Junior Academy very kindly joined us, rolling up their sleeves to paint all the children’s play equipment.

School pupil Violet explained: “I liked that I was able to help the community with my friends” while school friend Imogen added: “I liked helping because we weren’t just helping them, we were helping everyone. They now have fresh stuff to play on.”

Guided by Rebecca from Cormac’s Community Partnership team and Chris from Cornwall Council’s Community Link team, the children also got stuck in with litter picking, sweeping up leaves, and planting tulip and daffodils bulbs to bring a splash of colour to the park this spring. All equipment was provided, and snacks and treats were available to reward their hard work and dedication.  

Fellow school pupil Flo said: “I enjoyed it because we were helping the whole community and it made me feel good" while Ethan stated:“I liked helping make a difference and making the park tidier.” 

Our Area Housing Officer and Engagement team, along with representatives from Calstock Parish Council and National Energy Action, were ready to answer questions and encourage local residents to get involved in the action. Not to be overlooked, our Estate Rangers were behind the scenes, giving the neighbourhood a well-deserved refresh by clearing weeds and trimming back overgrown hedges. 

Julia, our Communications and Engagement Officer, said: “We’re really proud of the improvements made to the play park and the estate, which are part of our ongoing efforts to make Cornwall Housing neighbourhoods more welcoming and attractive for our residents. It’s been wonderful seeing everyone come together to create a space the whole community can be proud of. Watch this space as we’ll be back in the spring for more planting and enhancements!” 

Rebecca, Community Partnership Officer at Cormac, said: “Well done to everyone involved, especially the local school children and their teachers. They have completely transformed the look of the tired play equipment and planted nearly 100 tulip and daffodil bulbs! If you would like to make a difference to the green spaces in your local area, Cormac is always looking for volunteers. You can email your interest to us at volunteers@cormacltd.co.uk.”