A much-anticipated revamp of the playground at Keynsham’s Memorial Park will introduce a variety of new play equipment designed to engage children of all ages and abilities. Scheduled to begin in September, the improvements include a specially designed climbing wall, a rope swing, a wheelchair-accessible carousel, as well as new tunnels and play mounds.
Bath and North East Somerset Council emphasises that the upgrades will modernise the upper play area with safe, inclusive equipment to enhance enjoyment for all local children. Councillor Sarah Warren, deputy leader of the council, highlighted the importance of community feedback in shaping the project. She said, “Our parks are wonderful spaces where children can play and communities can connect. The new play area at Keynsham Memorial Park is particularly exciting because it has been shaped by local feedback and will create a more inclusive place where children of all ages and abilities can have fun.”
Councillor Warren further stressed the council’s commitment to investing in parks and green spaces, recognising their vital role in supporting physical and mental well-being. “It’s been wonderful to see families enjoying the parks we’ve upgraded already, and there’s much more to come,” she added.
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The climbing wall has been custom-designed to allow children to climb sideways as well as vertically, offering a unique and engaging challenge. The carousel’s inclusive design features dedicated wheelchair spaces to ensure that children with disabilities can enjoy the ride alongside their friends.
Councillor Andy Wait, chair of Keynsham Town Council, expressed enthusiasm about the redevelopment, saying: “Keynsham Memorial Park is one of the town’s most popular and well-loved green spaces, enjoyed by families from across our community. We’re especially pleased to introduce innovative new equipment that will excite our children, alongside some of the beloved existing play apparatus that will remain.”
He continued, “The new features will provide even more opportunities for youngsters to play, explore, and enjoy activities together. We look forward to seeing families making memories in the upgraded play area for many years to come.”
This development forms part of a wider council initiative to update playgrounds across the district. Recent refurbishments have taken place at Loxton Drive, Calton Road, Burnt House Road, and Weston Recreation Ground in Bath.
Further improvements are also planned for play areas at Vandyck Avenue in Keynsham, Staddlestone Park in Midsomer Norton, Woodborough Road in Radstock, as well as four Bath parks: Corston View, Pennyquick Park, Lymore Gardens, and Moorlands Recreation Ground. These upgrades are expected to commence in the autumn, continuing the council’s dedication to enhancing recreational spaces throughout the area.