Play parks to get 'inclusive and accessible' upgrades

A local authority in Surrey has said that three of its children's play areas are to get inclusive and accessible upgrades.

Reigate and Banstead Borough Council said the facilities in Hogden Bottom in Kingswood, Beecholme Recreation Ground in Banstead and Reigate's South Park will all receive new equipment and landscaping.

Part of the annual play area replacement programme, the work will start early in 2026.

Councillor Nadean Moses, executive member for environment and sustainability, described the move as "ensuring every child has the opportunity to access safe, inspiring spaces where they can grow in confidence, embrace adventure and let their imagination run free".

The upgrades will begin at Hogden Bottom from next week and it is expected to reopen before the end of January.

Beecholme Recreation Ground's revamp will follow, while a start date for South Park has yet to be agreed.

Using recycled and natural materials selected for their sustainability, the new equipment will include swings and roundabouts, a balance bridge, hanging bars and slides.

Sign language communication panels and multi-activity sensory panels are also being featured.

Ms Moses said the purpose of the new designs was to ensure that a range of ages and abilities can learn, interact and play together.

"Outdoor play is vital for children's physical and mental wellbeing and I hope that the children who visit, along with their parents and carers, will enjoy discovering and exploring the new features together," she added.

Each play area will be cordoned off while improvements are ongoing and the council thanked residents in advance for their patience.

Previously, the play areas at Fairfax Avenue in Redhill, Somerset Road in Meadvale and Woodmansterne Rec were all upgraded as part of the borough's replacement programme.

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