A popular Worcester play area has reopened following a major transformation, just in time for families to enjoy during the summer holidays.
The Horizon Hub play area has undergone a major refurbishment, with new play equipment installed and the park expanded to make improved use of the surrounding green space and features.
Worcester City Council has delivered the £102,400 improvement project, which was funded through planning-related developer contributions.
Preserving a mature sycamore tree has been a key part of the redesign and it is now surrounded by a circular tree seat, providing a shaded place for visitors to rest during hot weather.
The park has been extended onto the embankment alongside Stanley Road and features a new pedestrian entrance to improve access.
The newly developed embankment play area includes a double-width wavey slide, scramble net and wildflower garden, creating additional opportunities for play.
New equipment, including a ground-level trampoline and carousel, has been installed to provide more accessible and inclusive play opportunities.
Some of the existing play equipment, including the toddler and junior climbing frames and the youth shelter, have been retained.
Councillor Hannah Cooper, Vice Chair of Worcester City Council’s Place and Economic Development Committee, said: “It’s fantastic to see the refurbished play area already being enjoyed by children during the summer holidays.
“Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their ideas and comments during the consultation phase. The result is a more inclusive play space that caters for children of all ages and abilities.
“We’ve also been able to make better use of the natural landscape and green spaces around the park, creating an improved play area for everyone to enjoy.”
The refurbishment has been carried out by Wicksteed on behalf of the Council. The project follows the completion of refurbishment works at Ronkswood Hub play area last week.
Work is also continuing at Medway Road play area, with the upgraded facility due to be completed next month.
All three projects form part of the Worcester Play Plan, which aims to improve outdoor play provision across the city and ensure facilities continues to meet the needs of children and young people.
Further improvements are also planned for Power Park in St Peter’s, with residents set to be consulted on proposed enhancements later this year.
