The citizens of the Bottiglione district of Matera report to the editorial staff the state of degradation and danger in which the neighborhood playground is located. We are writing to you – they explain in the report – to bring to your attention the critical situation of degradation and danger of the local playground in the Rione Bottiglione in Matera, frequented daily by dozens of children. Despite numerous reports, the condition of the park continues to worsen, putting the safety of our young citizens at serious risk.
Rides Damaged or absent: the play structures are seriously compromised. The slide has exposed nails and the wooden walkways have been torn up, becoming potentially dangerous for children who use them. Benches and unsafe structures: there are various metal structures fixed precariously, representing a clear risk of falling, both for children and adults. Incomplete climbing structures: the climbing structure has visibly deteriorated fixing systems and missing support bars, as well as being decidedly unstable. Swings without seats: although the load-bearing structures of the swings are present, they do not have seat or swing systems.
We cannot continue to ignore this situation. – let citizens know – The playground should be a safe and welcoming place for children, where they can play and socialize in peace. Instead, the current condition makes it a treacherous and dangerous place. We therefore renew our appeal to the mayor, the deputy mayor and the municipal council to intervene immediately to resolve these critical issues. Our previous appeals have been ignored, but we cannot afford to wait any longer. Every day that passes increases the risk of a serious accident. Rather, we tell ourselves at this point, if we are not able to maintain safety and decorum, it is better to remove these serious dangers and leave the park free with its lawn. Children’s creativity will surely find a way to make it a place of play. Different, but at least safe. The community of the Bottiglione district – they conclude – deserves attention and concrete interventions for the good of its youngest inhabitants.
