New play area for Ipswich
It'll have a farmyard theme
Ipswich Borough Council is set to begin building a new play area at Ipswich's Alexandra Park next week.
The inclusive play area, for children aged two to 12 years old, will have a 'farmyard' theme complete with a tractor and haybarn.
The new play area will be relocated near the central path that cuts through the park - opposite the African garden - to help improve access and visibility, meaning the existing play area can remain open while work is carried out.
Work will begin next week, with the Council stressing all workers will follow strict social distancing guidelines.
Councillor Phil Smart, Portfolio Holder for Parks at Ipswich Borough Council, said:
"This new play area will bring a new lease of life to the park and we look forward to revealing the final result in the spring.
"It will include fun farm themed elements and inclusive play equipment so all children can enjoy it.
"Outdoor play is extremely beneficial to the physical health and wellbeing of children and we are pleased that we are able to keep the existing play area open while work is carried out. I would however like to stress that users of the play area need to follow social distancing guidelines, sanitise their hands regularly and come back later if it's too busy to help people keep their distance from each other."
The new play area will be fenced and will include an impact absorbent surface to improve safety.
It will also feature graphics to encourage imaginative play, swings, seesaws and springers, as well as a sensory and quiet play section.
It is expected the project will be completed in spring 2021. However, the timescale could change depending on the weather and any alterations to lockdown and social distancing guidelines.