READING Borough Council has marked the completion of a million-pound investment in play areas across town.
Three new and improved playgrounds have been opened this year, with sites at Westfield Road Recreation Ground, Waterloo Meadows, and Rivermead seeing refreshments, and work has begun at a fourth in Victoria Park.
Work started this month to bring upgraded play equipment to the Victoria Park site and is expected to conculed by spring next year.
The council has worked with Accessible Play Task and Finish Group to ensure new and upgraded playgrounds include a range of equipment for children of all abilities, as well as consulting with residents to have their say on the design of the parks.
The lead councillor for Leisure and Culture, Adele Barnett-Ward ,was joined at Westfield Recreational Park on Friday 11 October by Darran Williamson from Wicksteed Leisure, who designed, supplied and installed the play area.
The site now has better access and equipment, including the updated version of the Rec’s long-established, multi-child rocking horse feature.
Wicksteed Leisure also made a £250 food donation to New Beginnings Reading homeless charity.
It follows a complete rework of the play facilities at Prospect Park earlier this year.
Adele Barnett-Ward, Reading Borough Council’s Lead Councillor for Leisure, and Culture, said: “Play isn’t just about fun–it’s fundamental to a child’s development.
“Through play, children learn language skills, emotional regulation, creativity, and social interaction. It helps with problem-solving and boosts self-esteem.
“Every child deserves a safe and inclusive place to play, which is why our playgrounds are designed to be accessible to children and caregivers with diverse needs.”
She explained: “The council’s million-pound investment in play means there has never been a better time for families to visit Reading’s playgrounds.
“Why not take the children to explore a new-to-you play area over half-term?
“In addition to our three new play areas little ones love the animal spring units at Mapledurham Playing Fields, older children can challenge themselves on the climbing wall at Courage Park, and the accessible Reading-themed mini-golf at Prospect Park is fun for all the family.”
More details about Reading’s play parks can be found at reading.gov.uk/leisure/outdoors
