Newcastle Labour is delivering one of the city’s four flagship inclusive play areas in Elswick Park through a £1.5 million programme approved by the Labour-led council.
The project forms part of a £1.5 million programme approved by Newcastle City Council to improve play opportunities throughout the city. The new facility will be designed so children with different needs and abilities can play alongside one another.
Sensory, audio, visual and natural play equipment will be considered as the detailed plans are prepared. Children, parents, carers and community organisations will be invited to help shape the design so that it reflects what local families need.
Elswick Park is an important green space at the heart of the community. Better play facilities will help more children remain active, enjoy the outdoors and spend time with friends and family.
Newcastle Labour will work with residents to ensure local voices remain central as the consultation, design and construction timetable develops.
Putting a flagship scheme in Elswick is a deliberate investment in children and families in the West End. The aim is not simply to replace equipment, but to create a space where children with different needs and abilities can play together using sensory, audio, visual and natural features.
Labour representatives will ensure the community has a real role in the design. Children, disabled residents, parents, carers and local organisations should be able to influence the equipment, layout and accessibility before the final plans are agreed.
Labour Councillor Miriam Mafemba said:
“Elswick Park belongs to the whole community. Newcastle Labour is proud that local children will benefit from a flagship inclusive play area, and we will work to make sure residents have a strong voice in its design.”