Colchester City Council is delighted to announce that, following a public vote earlier this year, a winning design has been chosen for the new Castle Park playground.
The selected design was the clear favourite among residents, standing out for its exceptional accessibility and imaginative play zones. Construction is set to begin in January 2026, with the playground closing earlier that month to avoid disruption during the Christmas holiday period. Subject to weather conditions, the new playground is expected to open in time for the Easter holidays.
Children and families will be able to explore three distinct zones, each inspired by Colchester’s heritage and local landscape. The playground will include a Roman-themed area with a bespoke castle play structure, a Jungle Safari zone with animal-themed equipment, and a Mersea Island zone featuring a ship play structure and beach-themed activities. The much-loved helter-skelter will remain in place, freshly refurbished and repainted, and the existing playground fence will also be retained.
The new facility will be the most accessible playground in Colchester, featuring a large, ramped play unit within a Roman-themed area, along with the city’s only publicly accessible wheelchair swing and a wheelchair-friendly trampoline. Several pieces of equipment have been specifically designed for wheelchair users, including a roundabout and seesaw, ensuring children of all abilities can play together. Sand play, sensory panels, and tactile features will be integrated throughout the site to create a truly inclusive environment.
This project has been shaped by the community, with the winning design chosen by local residents through a public vote and additional feedback gathered from school pupils and families during consultation sessions.
The new designs can be viewed on www.colchester.gov.uk/castle-park-playground.
Councillor Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Waste, Neighbourhoods and Leisure, said: “I am thrilled that the community has played such a central role in shaping the future of Castle Park’s playground. The winning design reflects the ideas and aspirations of local families and sets a new benchmark for inclusive play in Colchester. We are committed to creating a space where every child, regardless of ability, can play, explore, and make memories. I look forward to seeing the transformation take place and to welcoming families to enjoy the new playground by Easter.”