New inclusive children's play park to be built

A new children's play area with inclusive equipment will be built in a park in Newark.

The space at Riverside Park will feature sensory play zones, wheelchair-friendly pathways, and equipment including braille boards and accessible swings.

Newark Town Council said the new park would be accessible for children of all abilities, including those with neurodivergent needs.

Work is due to start in February, with the play area set to open in time for Easter in April.

The authority said the equipment installed would be tailored to support children with physical and sensory disabilities, adding the design would "reflect a commitment to inclusion, wellbeing, and community connection".

Town clerk Matthew Gleadall said the park would be the first of its kind in Newark to have equipment adapted for children with different requirements and those who are neurodiverse.

"Despite a high percentage of the population living with neurodiversity, as a society we are routinely failing to accommodate individuals with neurodiverse needs in the way that we design and build environments, and that includes play parks," he said.

"We've got braille boards that will help those with visual impairments, wheelchair access for equipment, and equipment that makes sound for those with audio sensory needs.

"It's been very carefully selected through the design process."

Deputy town clerk, Anna Lawson, said it was an "important project", adding: "Every child deserves a place to play and feel included, and this new park will be a wonderful asset for families across our community."

The project has been funded by FCC Communities Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation that awards grants for community projects.

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