A new Roman-themed play area in the Castle Hill area of Ipswich has been completed in time for families to enjoy this October half-term week.
Officially opened today by Councillor Phil Smart, Ipswich Borough Council’s portfolio holder for Environment and Climate Change, the new play area is the first in Ipswich to feature an ability swing for wheelchair users and the first to be delivered as part of Ipswich Borough Council’s Play Area Strategy 2022-2027.
The play villa encourages active play for all abilities and ages with colourful mosaic surfacing and Roman-themed graphics inspired by a Roman villa unearthed nearby.
Other Roman elements include an amphora vase (large wine vessel) full of Roman coins, gladiator faces and training area, pantry, Roman baths, courtyard area with pendulum rope-swing and hopscotch will also be there to enjoy. There is even a grand banquet hall complete with a picnic table to complete the scene.
Councillor Phil Smart, Ipswich Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment and Climate Change, says:
“This is the first of many new, exciting, inclusive and educational play-spaces for families with young children to enjoy. It’s great to celebrate our local history in this way, with clever design allowing us to celebrate the past whilst educating the next generation in a fun and inspiring way.”
“With Gippeswyk Park transport-themed play area works ongoing and other play area upgrades planned, we look forward to celebrating further play area upgrades across Ipswich as inclusive play spaces for all to enjoy."
