Families, charities, councillors and the mayor all gathered for the reopening of a Stevenage play area, after it was given a refurb to make it more inclusive.
Canterbury Way Park is a much beloved community space that “desperately needed” a refurbishment.
Now, it has been reconstructed as part of the council's rolling parks programme.
The new elements are suitable to all abilities, genders and ages, including a sign language board, and communication board for those who are non-verbal, as well as play panels at comfortable height levels for all.
Cllr Sandra Barr said: “It was wonderful, disabled and non-disabled children were totally oblivious, to everything they just played with each other.
“My eldest is severely disabled, and we desperately wanted all my children to join in and play together. For me it is a dream come true.”
The main addition was the Cliff Rider which is hugely popular with children and incorporates an intensely thrilling ride, high up in the air.
A You & Me swing seat was also added, that encourages face-to-face interaction while swinging, which can be used by all generations.
A spokesperson for Stevenage Borough Council, said: “During the initial planning stages for this site, officers really wanted this play area to be a play space that was inclusive for all, regardless of age or ability.
“We wanted to include items of equipment that anyone, from a grandparent to a toddler, could get involved in.”
The officers also undertook guidance from Make Space for Girls, who have been undertaking research for a number of years, across numerous countries.
They discovered that young girls (particularly teenage girls) felt that the play spaces needed some sort of social seating, so that they could meet friends and socialise.
For this reason a hangout space was include - a fun, social seating area that incorporates a meeting point for teenagers or older children.
The reopening day took place last Thursday (August 15) and the park is now open to the public.
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