New inclusive playground opens at South Benfleet Playing Fields
Children and families across Castle Point are invited to enjoy a brand-new inclusive playground at South Benfleet Playing Fields, which was officially opened by the Mayor, Cllr Kate Knott on Monday 3 August
The new playground, known as the Lucy Watts Memorial Playground, has been designed to ensure children of all ages and abilities can play and learn together in a welcoming space.
Named in honour of local disability rights advocate Lucy Watts MBE, the playground reflects her commitment to improving opportunities, inclusion and quality of life for disabled people. Lucy, who lived with complex health conditions and became a nationally respected advocate for disability rights, dedicated her life to ensuring that people's voices were heard and barriers were broken down.
The playground features a wide range of inclusive equipment, sensory experiences and social spaces designed to bring children together through play.
Among the highlights are a wheelchair-accessible carousel, wheelchair seesaw, inclusive swings, accessible play towers, a large in-ground trampoline, sensory pathways and musical play equipment.
A standout feature is the impressive Cocowave Rope Swing, one of the largest of its kind, standing more than 3.6 metres high and incorporating accessible transfer and harness features to enable more children to join in the fun.
The playground's sensory path includes a variety of textures and hand-painted pebbles created by local children from the Glenwood School, helping to create a unique community feature.
The Mayor of Castle Point, Councillor Kate Knott said: "We are delighted to officially open the Lucy Watts Memorial Playground and create a lasting tribute to someone who worked tirelessly to champion inclusion and accessibility.”
Cllr Dave Blackwell, Leader of Castle Point Borough Council said: “This fantastic new facility has been designed so that children of all abilities can play side by side, make friends and enjoy the same experiences together. It is a space where everyone is welcome and we are sure it will be enjoyed by families for many years to come."
Cllr Michael Fuller, Cabinet Member for the Environment said: “The Lucy Watts Memorial Playground has been created with the aim of removing physical and social barriers to play and ensuring every child feels welcome and inspired.
“Whether using the wheelchair carousel, exploring the sensory path, creating music with friends, enjoying the accessible swings or relaxing in the meeting shelters, children will be able to play, learn and connect in a space designed for everyone.”
The Lucy Watts Memorial Playground is the first inclusive playground in the Borough.