A new playground has officially opened in Park Hill Park following £140k of improvements by Croydon Council.
The upgrades also include new disabled toilets, which are expected to be completed in February.
Yesterday afternoon (Wednesday 24 January), Executive Mayor Jason Perry and cabinet member for environment, Councillor Scott Roche were joined by members of the Friends of Park Hill Park, as well as council park staff, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The playground was designed in collaboration with local families and the Friends of Park Hill Park. Listening to their feedback, picnic tables were introduced to provide shaded seating while children play.
It is more accessible for wheelchair-users, featuring fully accessible entrances, replacing the old – occasionally muddy – paths, new wheelchair-friendly equipment and 25 play structures that have been approved by children.
There is a separate area for toddlers, twice the number of swings, and now a wider range of play options for children up to the age of 12.
The funding came from Section 106 obligations – money the council receives from developers for local infrastructure – and responds to long-standing calls for disabled toilets in the popular central Croydon park.
“We know Park Hill has a large population of children and this playground will be well-used and much appreciated. I’m delighted we’ve been able to deliver these upgrades, which provide a safe environment for more children – including those with special needs – to grow and develop through play.
“We are making good on a long-delayed commitment to improve and care for our parks, and today Park Hill is a friendlier and more accessible space for everyone to enjoy.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
Local families were enjoying the new playground during the ribbon-cutting – including Germaine Stockbridge and 20-month-old Persephone.
Above: 20-month old local resident Persephone, enjoying the slide
Dr. Stockbridge said: “Thank you for reshaping this playground into my daughter’s new paradise. She’s delighted with the new slides, sounds, and swings. We’re so happy that it is safer for her too. Perfect change – we’re truly happy!”
