Popular play areas at Seaton Road and Walton Recreation Ground in Felixstowe have reopened, following refurbishment works carried out over the summer by East Suffolk Council and Felixstowe Town Council.
An official opening event took place on 26 November, and these vibrant and inclusive spaces have already become a hub of activity, with young people from across Felixstowe enjoying the new equipment and outdoor fun.
Cllr Sarah Whitelock, East Suffolk’s cabinet member for Culture, Communities, Leisure and Tourism, said:
“We are so pleased to confirm that these play areas have now reopened. Spaces like these are so important for children and families, offering a safe and imaginative environment for children to play, explore and connect.
“These improvements have been shaped by the community, including those who participated in the consultation process. Thank you to everyone who gave their view.”
Cllr Corrine Franklin, Mayor of Felixstowe, said:
"It is great to see these fantastic new play areas open for our children and families to enjoy. Providing safe, fun, and creative outdoor spaces is so important for the health and happiness of our young people, and I’m delighted that this project reflects their ideas and needs. We hope these play areas become cherished spaces where memories are made for years to come."
The transformation of these play areas was made possible using funding from Felixstowe Town Council, East Suffolk Council, and Community Infrastructure Levy. These improvements are part of a five-year programme of improvements to East Suffolk’s play areas.
Both councils are especially grateful to the Felixstowe Youth Forum, Felixstowe School, and Grange Primary School for their enthusiastic support in spreading the word and encouraging young people to have their say. Their involvement ensured that the final designs reflected the preferences and needs of local families.
These improvements form part of the Council’s Play Strategy 2023-2027, which has seen eight play spaces improved at:
The Common and Townlands in Beccles
Matlock Dale in Carlton Colville
Langer Park, Seaton Road and Walton Recreation Ground in Felixstowe
King’s Avenue in Framlingham
Grange Meadow in Kesgrave
Pine Close in Rendlesham
Faulkener’s Way in Trimley St Mary
Bonsey Gardens in Wrentham