Our funding will help bring new climbing wall to a popular Derbyshire park
Children and families in Darley Dale will soon have even more opportunities to play, exercise and socialise outdoors thanks to support from our Community Chest programme.
The Whitworth Centre has been awarded funds to help towards the installation of a new climbing wall at Whitworth Park, creating an exciting new attraction for older children and young people.
The project follows the successful installation of a new multi play unit at the park in 2025, which was also supported through our Community Chest fund. Following overwhelming community support for the new equipment, local families highlighted a need for additional facilities aimed at older children.
After consulting residents and visitors, more than 170 people took part in a public vote to select their preferred design, with the Bloqx 5 climbing wall emerging as the clear favourite.
The new equipment will provide a fun and challenging activity for children aged eight and above, encouraging physical activity, confidence building and social interaction while helping reduce screen time and promoting positive mental wellbeing.
The climbing wall will be installed within Whitworth Park, a much loved community space that has served local families for generations and attracts visitors from across the wider area.
Sarah Rivett, Community Engagement Manager for Darley Dales Town Council said: “We were delighted by the response to the new play equipment installed last year and grateful for the support Platform Housing Group provided to help make that happen.
“The feedback we received made it clear that older children wanted something of their own and the climbing wall will provide an exciting new challenge while encouraging healthy outdoor play and social interaction. Whitworth Park is an important community asset and we want to ensure it continues to offer something for everyone, both now and in the future.
“The support from Platform Housing Group is helping us to take another important step towards achieving that vision and creating opportunities for local children and families to enjoy the park together.”
The climbing wall project is expected to benefit around 350 people, including many of our customers, and will be used by local families, schools, Scouts, Guides and other community groups.
Chris Reed, our Community Investment Project Manager said: “We’re proud to support projects that help create thriving communities and improve opportunities for local residents. The Whitworth Centre has a fantastic track record of delivering projects that bring people together and encourage healthy, active lifestyles.
“This climbing wall will provide a valuable new facility for older children and young people, giving them a space to challenge themselves, build confidence and enjoy spending time outdoors with friends. It’s a great example of a community listening to local people and investing in facilities that reflect their needs.”
The Whitworth Centre and Park were gifted to the people of Darley Dale by Victorian industrialist Sir Joseph Whitworth in 1890 and remains an important community hub today, hosting a wide range of activities and services for local residents.
Planning consent is currently being sought from the district council; once installed, there will be an opening celebration for local residents and community groups.
Our Community Chest fund supports a wide range of local projects focused on wellbeing, inclusion, community cohesion and opportunities for local people. The pot is for our customers and local charities, clubs and other not-for-profit organisations for any projects directly benefitting our customers; all applications are assessed against specific eligibility criteria by customers who sit on our Customer Voice Panel.
Photo caption : The new climbing wall project follows the successful installation of a new multi play unit at the park in 2025, which was also supported through Platform’s Community Chest fund.