£5 million investment towards children's play areas in Wales
The Welsh Government is providing an extra £5m to local authorities to improve the quality of play spaces, refurbish playgrounds and support the creation of inclusive spaces
Last updated 12th May 2025
The Welsh Government is providing an extra £5m to local authorities to purchase items to improve the quality of play spaces, refurbish playgrounds and support the creation of inclusive and accessible play spaces.
When considering their proposals, local authorities are being asked to gather the views of people including children and their families on play provision in their area; consider play opportunities that are inclusive and encourage all children to play and meet together, and improve access and safety.
Funding from the Active Travel Fund has been used to enhance the playground (as seen in picture) through the Williamsfield Lane Active Travel Scheme.
This has seen a mixture of planting, natural eco-friendly play areas, equipment such as swings and a host of eco-friendly equipment for children's development like hedgehog houses put in place.
The play area is also used as a Forest School and for ecological work by Overmonnow Primary School, with the Active Travel network providing safe access.
A parent said:
"We use the park every day after school, it is lovely to let the children play together and decompress after the school day."
Another parent said:
“The park is nice, especially if we are slightly early, then we can use it. Also, at the end of the school day the park is nice to stop off at.”
Minister for Children, Dawn Bowden said:
“We want a Wales where all children feel physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy and can access their right to play.
“Playgrounds, such as Williams Field Lane playground, are fantastic places for children to play, make friends and enjoy themselves.
“This month we celebrate National Children’s Day. This funding will improve children’s experiences and help them build confidence and develop their skills.
“We will continue to work with local authorities and partners to support our ambitions in improving opportunities to play and promote the benefits of play for children’s wellbeing.”
Cabinet Secretary for Housing and Local Government, Jayne Bryant, said:
“By working closely with local authorities, we’re helping to ensure children in Wales have access to safe and engaging places to play, particularly in areas where families may face additional challenges.
“Our £5m investment in these vital community assets is more than just improving playgrounds. It’s about investing in our children's development and wellbeing – and building stronger, better-connected communities across Wales."