From an article published in the Scunthorpe Telegraph by Nigel Fisher - 30 October 2006

A DEVELOPMENT offering fun for young families has been earmarked for Brigg, with the aim of providing 20 jobs.

Funforest Limited, a local company, has submitted a planning application to build a family entertainment centre on the Ancholme Business Park.If North Lincolnshire Council gives it the green light, it will be one of the few purpose-built, soft play-based family entertainment centres in the country.

The company has been formed by two couples, who said they had become frustrated with the lack of facilities available for young children in the area.

Partner Nick Du Val said: "The main play frame will be more than seven metres high, on four levels, and occupy one-third of the entire building.

"It will contain a number of slides, ball pools, rope bridges and obstacles, and is being designed to easily accommodate 150 children aged up to 12 years.

"There will be separate areas set aside for babies, toddlers and older children, to ensure pre-school toddlers can play safely away from older children.

"We have undertaken research which has supported our conclusion there is a big need for this type of venue in North Lincolnshire."

The business has located a 1.6-acre site on the business park suitable for an 8,000 sq ft building, with on-site parking.

"The main purpose of the facility will be to provide a safe, secure and superior venue, to enjoy the adventure of play in a relaxed family-orientated atmosphere," said Mr Du Val.

"This will be achieved by state-of-the-art and innovative play equipment, designed to encourage children to interact and take part in all activities, as well as developing mental and risk-taking skills.

"The safety and security of the children and adults visiting the venue will be of paramount importance."

FunForest will also provide a healthy range of refreshments, and three party rooms for private hire.

"With a flexible approach to shift systems, we hope to attract a diverse range of employees," Mr Du Val added.

The entire project is privately financed and backed by the Yorkshire Bank, in Scunthorpe, and the planning application has gained support from Brigg Town Council.

"Assuming the planning application is successful, we are hoping to be open by April 2007," Mr Du Val added.

Partner Tony Forrest said: "Both families are really excited about the project and are looking forward to the start of construction in December. We're hoping for a mild winter so delays are avoided."

The businessmen are hoping to start recruiting staff in the new year. New jobs will include chefs, waitresses, play supervisors and party hosts.

"The fact of the matter is, in Brigg, and outlying villages, we have nowhere to take the kids for a couple of hours a week, and nowhere to hold a party for our children," said Mr Forrest.

"We have nowhere for parents of young babies or toddlers to go without bigger, more boisterous children playing."

Opening hours for the centre will be seven days per week, from 9am to 7pm.

Mr Forrest added: "Based on research, carried out thanks to local schools, we feel this local facility is well overdue."

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With thanks to the Scunthorpe Telegraph - www.thisisscunthorpe.co.uk