The Leader of Bolton Council has officially opened a new town centre play area this week, which reflects the town’s historic links with elephants.
The new pachyderm play area is situated in Octagon Court and includes a large multi-use play structure with climbing frames and a slide, as well as two elephant-shaped rockers.
Ellie, Elner and Mr Jackbow, the brightly coloured elephants which previously stood at the top of Newport Street have been given a new home adjoining the play area.
The elephant theme is continued with elephant footprints carved into paving stones across the square.
There is also a sign explaining the history of elephants in Bolton and Bolton’s long connection with these animals. The cast iron elephants which previously sat on top of the charity canopy have also been given a new home on top of this sign
As part of the project, Octagon Court has also been repaved in sandstone and new LED lighting columns installed.
The play area was opened to the public by Councillor Cliff Morris on Thursday 19 May.
Councillor Cliff Morris, Leader of Bolton Council said: “I’m extremely pleased to be opening this great new elephant-themed play area, which reflects the town’s long history and association with elephants throughout the years.
We’re also happy that it will be a new home for some of our existing elephants from around the town.
We hope that parents will be able to take a break from shopping, whilst their children have fun playing on the new play area and learn about the town’s connections with these enormous animals.”
