A brand-new children’s play area at Murray Road Recreation Ground has officially opened, providing an exciting and inclusive space for families to enjoy.
The new facility features 29 pieces of play equipment for children aged between one and 14-years-old, with a unique horse-racing theme inspired by the site’s history as a former racecourse. The new space features a one-of-a-kind Suffolk Punch horse, celebrating the area’s heritage, alongside a starting block with binoculars, a show jumping trail, a winner’s podium and a racetrack.
The play area includes a range of inclusive equipment, such as a wheelchair-accessible carousel, braille alphabet and number panels, and sign language learning features. A dedicated communication panel has also been installed to support children who may find verbal communication challenging, enabling them to express themselves by pointing to symbols.
The project forms part of Ipswich Borough Council’s £3.5 million play area strategy, aimed at improving and modernising play facilities across the borough.
Councillor Stefan Long, Ipswich Borough Council Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sport, said: “I’m delighted to see the new play area at Murray Road Recreation Ground now open for families to enjoy. This fantastic new space gives children more opportunities to get outside, be active and use their imagination.
“The horse-themed equipment is a wonderful way to celebrate the history of this site, helping children connect with the past while having fun. It’s also important that this play area has been designed to be inclusive, so children can play happily together.
“The opening marks another key milestone in the council’s ongoing investment in parks and open spaces, creating welcoming environments for communities across Ipswich.”