An accessible new play area will be installed at Hamworthy Park in the coming weeks.
Plans developed with local children, families and Diverse Abilities include wheelchair-accessible equipment throughout, with the park divided into 4 zones offering water play, sensory features, swings, slides and quieter activities.
A ramped playboat inspired by Hamworthy’s maritime history will sit at its centre, featuring sensory equipment on deck and double and triple slides, while the wider area will have 8 different swings.
Other equipment will include a wheelchair-transferable roundabout, accessible water play, a playhouse and inclusive picnic seating, alongside a quieter space with communication, Braille and multi-sensory panels, a storytelling chair and an interactive rain wheel.
Councillor Andy Hadley, BCP Council’s Portfolio Holder for Parks, said inclusivity had shaped the design from the beginning, creating a space where “every child feels welcome” and can join in.
The refurbishment forms part of the council’s Plan for Play programme, which is improving around 100 play areas across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, including major work at nearly 20 locations.
Councillor Sandra Moore said the Hamworthy design reflects local ideas and will provide accessible play for children and young people of different ages and abilities.
