A REQUEST to put a fence around the playground in Baskerville Road has been rejected by Sonning Common Parish Council.

In a letter to the general purposes committee, Cllr Chrissie Phillips-Tilbury asked for a fence because of “health and safety” and to stop residents from “exercising their dogs”.

She said: “I request a fence and enclosure gate. I believe that the concrete posts already in situ would be the most appropriate area for enclosure with a new fence using the existing posts.

“I have seen people using the area to exercise their dogs and although the overall playground area is appealing, it does have a rather unfinished look.

“It is such a shame when the area has been so improved and is obviously being used a great deal more not to finish it off. I do feel it is a health and safety issue. I think dog owners will think twice before opening a gate and walking into the area.”


The playground cost around £28,000 to complete and includes a new climbing frame and activity trail. The cost was split between the parish council and South Oxfordshire District Council.

Councillor Alan Rooke said that residents are “over the moon” with the playground the way it is. He told last Tuesday’s committee meeting: “I have had no complaints whatsoever. I have never seen any dogs wandering around and no one has ever complained about it.”

The decision by the committee to block the proposal will be ratified at the next full meeting of the parish council on Monday, September 21.

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Published on 10 August 2009