North Ayrshire Council revamping play parks as part of an ongoing drive to boost inclusivity for everyone

dailyrecord.co.uk:

North Ayrshire Council is revamping all of its playparks with improvements, repairs and modernisation already carried out at 45 sites - with an additional 30 playparks currently scheduled for improvement work.A variety of equipment - including nest swings, cradle swings, sensory panels and climbing frames – has been installed and these vary from area to area.As part of an ongoing drive to boost inclusivity for everyone, new facilities will be available for more children and adults.Councillor Tony Gurney, Cabinet Member for Green Environment and Economy, said: “We are introducing accessible seating and outdoor gym equipment to promote play for all – not just children.“This is important as play improves mental health for everyone.

We have equipment that is suitable for adults as well as children, and this will help keep people of all ages active and encourage them to enjoy being outdoors.”The improvements are being paid for through a combination of money from the Scottish Government Capital Allocation for Renewal of Play Parks scheme and Council funding.Over five years, from 2021 to 2026, a total of £1.39million in Scottish Government funding will be invested in inland play facilities, while the council is spending £500,000 in coastal areas.Feedback from residents and community groups about the work that has been carried out by the council’s Streetscene team so far has been positive, especially about the level of inclusive equipment being installed.The Streetscene team, which is part of Neighbourhood Services, has liaised with communities to find out what their needs are and discover which equipment will work well in certain areas.A public consultation exercise that encouraged residents to have their say on play facilities