A SMALL Teignbridge village primary school has received a cash windfall to fund a new play area.

Hennock parish councillors have agreed to award Chudleigh Knighton CofE Primary School more than £32,000 to provide a new and inclusive play area for early years children.

The money has come from developer contributions to the Community Infrastruucture Levy.

Simon Westwood, head of school, said: ‘We are delighted to be awarded this money from Hennock Parish Council and want to thank everyone involved in helping to make this happen.

‘The funds will be used to improve our early years outdoor play provision and create a space which is more accessible and inclusive for all.

‘The current provision is very limited with lots of restrictions including significant barriers to free movement because of multiple tiered levels.’

Outdoor Play UK has been chosen to provide the new play area and work will take place during the summer holidays.

The area has been redesigned to improve accessibility install soft surfacing to allow a wider range of physical activities, and add shelter to encourage play in all weather conditions and support continuous provision throughout the year.

Better outdoor play equipment will directly enhance children’s motor development, promote physical confidence, and encourage active, healthy lifestyles from an early age, while enhancing the quality of outdoor learning.

Children will have access to a sand box, water table and climbing area in phase one, with phase two including a timber trail and rope bridge for the main school.

The school’s Parent Teacher and Friends Association had previously raised £2,500 and this will be invested in the second half of the project.

A further £6,000 more is needed to complete the works.

The school has some upcoming fundraising events planned, including a marathon, cinema night and summer fayre, to help raise the funds.