Refurbished play park opens to the public
The refurbished play area at River Park in Winchester is ready to receive its first guests.
New equipment at the park was selected following public consultation during the Park Plan and includes a wheelchair-accessible see-saw alongside other inclusive features, as well as a human hamster wheel requested by a number of respondents.
Local artist studios and gallery space The Colour Factory, which is based in the same area as the park, has provided a mural on the brick flood defence wall depicting animals found in and around the River Itchen which runs along the southern boundary of the play area.
A new toilet pod nearby has three unisex toilets including one with a baby change facility and one with an accessible WC, all of which can be accessed by new steps and a ramp.
Winchester City Council’s Cabinet Member for Community and Engagement Cllr Kathleen Becker said:
“I'm very excited that the new play area at River Park will be open in time for the school summer holidays. The redevelopment represents the next step in implementing the Park Plan and offers wonderful new opportunities for children and their families to have fun outside this summer in the beautiful green setting.
“The rotating hamster wheel proved a popular request during the engagement process, and I'm sure that lots of children, including my own, will enjoy it over the holidays and for many years to come."