PLANS have been lodged to transform a school playground in south Cumbria into an ‘exciting space that will inspire play and learning’.

The applicant Mrs Battersby has submitted a planning application to Westmorland and Furness Council to improve the playground at Cartmel Church of England Primary School.

Proposals include installing new playground equipment, an outdoor classroom, an amphitheatre as well as a new parking area for staff and visitors.

Planning documents state: “The children, staff and governors of Cartmel CofE primary school are excited to embark on a project that will transform the school grounds from bland expanse of tarmac into an exciting space that will inspire play and learning.

“The project aims to turn the school’s outdoor areas into greener spaces for outdoor learning and play, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and children’s wellbeing. This is a big project for a small school but one that will be beneficial for generations to come.”

According to planning documents new softer rubber bound surface will replace the tarmac areas and a new growing area will be built alongside a greenhouse and picnic area so that children can take part in growing their own food.

Planning documents add: “Stakeholders of the school and the local community have been involved in the design and development of the project.

“The response has been overwhelming and through consultation we have discovered many local groups and businesses that are supportive of the project. We will be sharing the benefits of our new grounds by opening for community use outside of school hours.”

A design and access statement says the existing multi-use games area will be retained.

The planning application is under consideration.