Norwich City Council has opened a new junior play area in Wensum Park.
The upgrades form part of ongoing efforts to provide more inclusive and engaging outdoor spaces for children of all abilities to enjoy. Following a refurbishment of the park’s main play area last year, this second phase of improvements will benefit younger children.
The new junior play area, which has been installed where the old paddling pool once was, now features a 4-metre castle to climb, a wheelchair-accessible carousel, and a variety of sensory activities that encourage imaginative play and social interaction among children.
The sand which previously surrounded the junior play area has been replaced with more accessible flat rubber surface, while new fencing will help ensure that children can play safely.
The project was supported by funding of £85,000 from The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities’ Levelling Up Parks Fund, following a successful bid in 2022. This funding also supported woodland improvement works in Wensum Park last year to boost biodiversity, increase accessibility, and help reduce antisocial behaviour.
Graham Nelson, executive director of development and city services, said: “I’m really pleased to see our vision for Wensum Park come to life and look forward to seeing the local community enjoy their upgraded play area. The new facilities provide both fun and adventure, and importantly, create an inclusive environment where children of all abilities can play together.”
