A Worcester play area has been re-opened following a major transformation.
Medway Road play area has been completely revamped over the past few months to create an inclusive space for children to play.
The project has cost a total of £116,900, with £100,000 funded through planning-related developer contributions and the remaining costs met by Worcester City Council, which has also delivered the project.
The former ramps, used by people on bikes, scooters and skateboards, have been replaced with a coastal-themed play facility designed for children of all ages and abilities.
A large ship climbing structure and an eye-catching seaside mural have been installed, alongside a range of new equipment including monkey bars, swings, an octopus-shaped seesaw, slides and an interactive play board.
The existing toddler play area has been enclosed with railings to help keep young children safe and help prevent dogs from entering the play space. New play features include a wheelchair-accessible roundabout and ground-level trampoline.
A communication board has been installed to support non-verbal children and adults. There is a designated meeting space for older children and teenagers, including hexagon swings and social seating.
Seating areas have also been installed throughout the site.
The new design was shaped by feedback from local residents during a consultation earlier this year and work has been completed by Dragon Play & Sports.
Residents asked for more inclusive and varied equipment, along with improved accessibility and safety surfacing.
Medway Road is the third Worcester play area to re-open this summer following refurbishment projects, with improvements at Horizon Hub and Ronkswood Hub already proving popular with children and their parents.
The projects form part of the Worcester Play Plan, a city-wide programme to improve play opportunities for children and young people across Worcester.
Councillor Adrian Gregson, Chair of Worcester City Council’s Place & Economic Development Committee said: “The transformation of Medway Road play area is another major milestone in our Worcester Play Plan.
“Following the successful refurbishments at Horizon Hub and Ronkswood, we are continuing to invest in high-quality, inclusive play spaces across the city.
“It's fantastic to see residents' feedback reflected in a vibrant new park that can be enjoyed by children of all ages and abilities.”
