Council invests £1.5 million in city play spaces

Families across Newcastle are set to enjoy upgraded play areas.

Newcastle City Council has approved a £1.5 million programme to redevelop four sites across the city – Blakelaw Park, Riverside Country Park, Elswick Park and City Stadium – with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity. 

The enhanced spaces will feature sensory, audio and visual play equipment alongside natural play elements, designed to ensure children of all abilities can enjoy the facilities.

In addition to the flagship redevelopments, seven neighbourhood play areas across the city will each receive £90,000 for refurbishment. 

Areas earmarked for improvements include Parklands, Castle, Chapel, Arthurs Hill, Benwell & Scotswood, Byker and Walkergate, where current gaps in provision have been identified.

The council has pledged to involve communities, children and young people in the design process, ensuring each space reflects local needs and fosters pride and ownership. 

Once complete, the upgraded sites will provide free, accessible play opportunities for families across the city.

Councillor Alex Hay, deputy leader of Newcastle Council and cabinet member for neighbourhood services, said: “This is about more than new play equipment. 

“It is about children of all abilities playing side by side.

“It is about families enjoying time together, and it is about communities taking pride in the spaces they share.

“I am proud to bring forward a programme that invests in our children, our families and the future of our city.

“By agreeing this investment, we can make sure every child can play, every family can enjoy time together and every community can be proud.

“Play spaces are vital for children’s health, happiness and confidence. 

“They are where they make friends, grow in independence and feel part of their community.

“Every child deserves a safe and exciting place to play close to home and this investment delivers just that.

“By investing in inclusive, accessible and sustainable playgrounds, we are continuing to make Newcastle a more accessible city for our residents, and our young people.”

The new scheme builds on more than £2 million already invested by the council since 2019 to improve 66 play areas. 

Funding will be drawn from the Estate Management Fund, alongside developer contributions and the Community Infrastructure Levy.

Work is expected to begin later this year following detailed design and consultation.

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