Festive reopening of the Schateiland playground
Soap bubbles, ice creams, balloons, music and glorious summer weather provided the backdrop for the reopening of the Schateiland playground on Monday 13 July. Welzijn Lelystad will now take over the management of Schateiland. Thanks to the long-standing dedication of the former board, the playground has grown into a much-loved meeting place, where children play, residents meet and memories are made.
A lasting memento has been created for the former board: a plaque thanking them is displayed on the pirate ship. Marieke Voogt, Director of Welzijn Lelystad , unveiled it together with Yoeri Hollander, Bianca Bruggink and Councillor Michel Bakelaar.
More than just a playground
‘It’s lovely to be here. As a father of three children, I come here often,’ said Councillor Michel Bakelaar. He highlighted the important role played by Schateiland: a place where parents can meet and chat with one another. ‘As a local authority, we are proud that we are working together to continue building the future of Schateiland.’
Following these remarks, he presented a symbolic key to Marieke Voogt, Managing Director of Welzijn Lelystad . ‘For our part, we are delighted to be able to move forward with Schateiland. It is more than just a playground. Situated in the heart of the Waterwijk, it is an important meeting place for children, parents and local residents.’
Shortly after the opening, the Samen Lelystad Oost Summer Festival began. Marieke Voogt: ‘Yet another wonderful initiative following last year’s winter festival, through which we are making these neighbourhoods in Lelystad even better places to live.’ Samen Lelystad Oost is a programme in which residents, volunteers, organisations and the local council work together to build strong and engaged neighbourhoods.
A lively meeting place
To ensure Schateiland has a strong foundation for the future, Welzijn Lelystad has appointed a social worker to manage the playground. This social worker supports volunteers and organises activities. As a result, the playground can be open more often, more activities are offered, and Schateiland continues to develop into a vibrant meeting place for children, young people and local residents.
The councillor described the reopening as a fine example of what is possible when professional support and volunteers work together to strengthen one another. He invited residents to volunteer and help shape the future of Schateiland.
Photo caption: Councillor Michel Bakelaar and Managing Director Marieke Voogt of Welzijn Lelystad , together with former board members Brenda Bruggink and Yoeri Hollander of Schateiland. Fotostudio Wierd
