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£300,000 upgrade to children’s playgrounds begins at Essex Country Parks
Sand pits, climbing forests and agility trails are all planned as part of the county council’s investment.
Construction has begun, on children’s play areas in three country parks following a significant investment by Essex County Council.
Working with Kompan UK, the playground equipment supplier, the £335,000 from the council’s capital programme will see the much-loved play trail at Great Notley Country Park receive new and improved play equipment from spring 2026. This will include:
• play pit
• climbing forest
• sensory equipment
• agility trail
• 12-metre rope bridge
The investment will also cover new safety and surfacing features at Belhus Woods and Hadleigh country parks.
The improvements are designed to stimulate children’s imaginative play, improve communication skills, strengthen muscles and co-ordination and help burn off energy.
Closures and diversions will be in place at the three country parks while the improvements are underway.
Councillor Mark Durham, Cabinet Member for the Arts, Heritage and Culture at Essex County Council, said: “We are delighted to be able to invest in the play areas at these much-loved country parks, which every year provide young families with an affordable day out.
“Outdoor play itself is vital for children's wellbeing. It provides physical health benefits like improved fitness and stronger immune systems as well as mental health benefits, including better mood, social skills, resilience and natural world connections.
“We hope more children continue to enjoy the outdoor play at Essex Country Parks in the future.”