Play Street event transforms road in Blackpool into safe play zone
Children swapped traffic for chalk, scooters and skipping ropes as Claremont residents came together for a community Play Street event aimed at bringing neighbours closer and giving young people a safe space to play outdoors.
Residents in Claremont enjoyed an afternoon of outdoor fun as part of a community Play Street event organised by local youth charity Magic Club in partnership with Blackpool Council.
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Part of Clevedon Road was temporarily closed to traffic on Thursday, May 7, allowing children to safely cycle, scoot, skip and play games in the street between 4-5pm.
Play Streets are resident-led road closures designed to encourage outdoor play and strengthen community connections.
Families and neighbours were able to spend time together outside while children enjoyed a safe, car-free environment right on their doorstep.
The event received a warm response from residents with children describing it as “awesome” and “the best day ever”.
Parents and passers-by also praised the initiative, with comments including: “That’s brilliant, it’s great seeing kids out,” and “What a lovely idea.”
Blackpool Council leader Cllr Lynn Williams said: “It’s wonderful to see that another successful Play Streets event has taken place.
“They create a safe, welcoming environment where children can experience the simple joy of playing outside. The sessions help children develop important life skills such as independence, confidence and social interaction, while also supporting their physical and mental wellbeing.”
She also commended Magic Club for its role in bringing communities together and supporting local families.
Magic Club hopes to expand the initiative across Claremont, creating a regular programme of Play Streets in the area.
A spokesperson from Magic Club said: “Play Streets are a great way to get people, young people and adults alike, out playing and socialising right on their doorsteps.
“We’ve seen families make new friends, passersby chatting to us about how amazing it is to see children playing, skipping and chalking, and people making the most of the streets in which they live.”
Another Play Street event is planned for Erdington Road on Monday, May 25, from 12-3pm.
Residents interested in organising their own event can find more information on their website.