Wakefield Council reveals £4m investment into its country parks and play areas
More than £4million is being invested in to parks and play areas across the district in 2006 with nine new areas being introduced.
Wakefield Council is investing the money as part of an upgrade programme, which promises to provide communities with more inclusive, fun spaces to enjoy.
Last year the council invested over £2m in park and play area improvements, including four brand new play areas, with Castleford Valley Gardens, Kinsley’s Gorton Street, Hemsworth’s West End and Dunderdale Recreation Ground in Castleford.
It also delivered 30 upgrades in country parks and greenspaces, including new fencing, benches and other improvements.
For 2026, there are nine new play areas, including Ferrybridge and Kettlethorpe which have already completed.
The next play areas are Agbrigg Road, Baker Lane in Stanley, The Barracks in Pontefract, Church Street in Ossett, Anglers Country Park, Acacia Walk, Warwick Estate and Lime Pit Lane.
New play areas will, where possible, include features for those with restricted mobility, sensory impairment and neuro-developmental conditions.
The parks are designed to promote creativity and imagination for different age ranges, including play equipment that encourages challenging and adventurous play, including ziplines, climbing towers or a pivot seesaw in some areas.
Coun George Ayre, Wakefield Council's Cabinet Member for Environment and Civic Services, said: “Residents have told us and their local ward councillors that they want better outdoor spaces in their communities. This project is aimed at delivering exactly that.
“We already had plans for several major improvements, but now we’ve taken this one step further by committing at least £4m towards this work in 2026. Additionally, we’re already looking at projects for 2027 and beyond.
“This is all about creating community spaces where lasting memories can be made. Places where nature can flourish. And environments where children can thrive.”
Coun Ayre added: " We know from your feedback that every project doesn’t need to be a major refurbishment.
"So, we plan to also deliver a further 35 smaller upgrades in our country parks and greenspaces, ranging from things new benches, new footpaths, and upgrades to toilet facilities."
To find out more about the works planned visit www.wakefield.gov.uk/playandparks.
The council will also be creating a dedicated page on their website which provides parents with details on play areas inclusivity and accessibility.