Exciting new play equipment installed at Houghton Hall Park
Friday, 27 December 2024
Families and visitors to Houghton Hall Park can now enjoy brand-new play equipment thanks to a £75,000 investment, funded through Section 106 developer contributions.
The new equipment replaces the old log stack, which was removed for safety reasons, and offers exciting new features designed to engage and challenge older children.
The centrepiece of the upgrade is a multi-play unit that incorporates climbing, balancing, crawling and sliding activities as well space to socialise. Following a public survey that received 243 responses, with 89% supporting the chosen design, this innovative structure was selected to meet the needs and preferences of the local community.
Recognising the importance of inclusivity, the survey also highlighted the need for more accessible play options. To address this, a new inclusive roundabout with seats which are also suitable for wheelchair users, has been installed alongside existing accessible equipment in the play area near the visitors’ centre.
Councillor Tracey Wye, Executive Member responsible for the council’s countryside sites, said:
This new play equipment is a fantastic upgrade for Houghton Hall Park, and we’re delighted to see how much it’s already being enjoyed by families. The feedback from children and parents has been overwhelmingly positive, and it’s wonderful to know this investment will provide hours of fun, challenge, and adventure for local families. With the addition of inclusive play options, we’re ensuring that everyone in our community can enjoy this fantastic space.
Councillor Tracey McMahon, Chair of the Houghton Hall Park Board, said:
As the Chair of the Houghton Hall Park Board, I am thrilled that this replacement piece of equipment is now in place. It was a huge loss to the park and the community having to remove the previous equipment, and these new pieces will be of huge benefit to a wider range of our young people.
Councillor Tracey McMahon added:
As management of the park transfers to Houghton Regis Town Council, I would like to thank all those involved at Central Bedfordshire Council for their work to develop this valuable and much-loved open space. We now look forward to a new chapter in the park’s management, retaining and building on what has already been achieved to ensure Houghton Hall Park continues to meet the needs of residents in Houghton Regis for many years to come.
Houghton Hall Park, which is jointly owned and funded by Central Bedfordshire Council and Houghton Regis Town Council, has made some changes. From 23 December 2024, the day-to-day management of the park was transferred to Houghton Regis Town Council.