A new design for the site will replace the existing play equipment with a modern, accessible and inclusive play space, featuring a play ship with slide, swings, a spinner bowl, climbing and balancing equipment, alongside educational and sensory play features including a Tile Slide Fish panel and Turtle Texture Play Panel.
The project has received up to £40,000 from Enovert Community Trust following a successful funding application led by Ward Councillor Lesley Scott-Boutell with support from council officers. This funding is contributing towards a £51,000 investment in the Wheatfield Road play area, which will deliver a range of new inclusive and accessible play features for local families.
The improvements form part of Colchester City Council's wider investment in play facilities across the city, helping to ensure children and young people have access to high-quality, inclusive and engaging places to play.
Councillor Lesley Scott-Boutell, Ward Councillor for Stanway, said: "I'm delighted that funding from Enovert Community Trust is helping to bring this exciting project to Wheatfield Road.
"When I became aware of the funding opportunity, I was keen to explore how it could benefit local residents, and I'm pleased that by working with council officers we were able to secure this investment for the community.
"The new play area will provide a fantastic space for local children and families to enjoy, and I'd like to thank Enovert Community Trust for supporting this important project."
Councillor Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Waste, Neighbourhoods and Leisure, said: "We're committed to investing in high-quality play facilities that encourage children to be active, healthy and spend more time outdoors.
"We're grateful to Enovert Community Trust for its support and to Councillor Scott-Boutell for helping secure this valuable funding, which will benefit local families for many years to come."
Angela Haymonds, Trust Manager of Enovert Community Trust said: "Enovert Community Trust is pleased to support projects that deliver lasting benefits for local communities. The Wheatfield Road play area upgrade will provide an attractive and accessible space for children and families, and we are delighted to contribute towards its delivery."
Work is currently scheduled to begin on 31 July and is expected to take approximately four weeks, subject to weather and site conditions.