A play unit designed specifically for children who use wheelchairs has been introduced in Royal Victoria Park in Bath, as part of a £55,000 improvement project at the site.
The accessible play unit at Royal Victoria Park | Photo courtesy of B&NES Council
The unit has two generous ramps which enable children to access an off-ground play platform, without having to negotiate stairs or be lifted out of their wheelchairs or buggies.
Bath & North East Somerset Council’s parks play team designed the structure after consulting with families who use the park and with wheelchair users.
It replaces a play unit which was not fully accessible, although popular features from the old unit have been incorporated into the new one, including the slide and steering consoles.
Earlier this year the local authority also added an ability swing, to accommodate a wheelchair, next to the standard swings at the park, helping to ensure that children of all abilities can play alongside each other.
The improvements at Royal Victoria Park are part of the council’s wider aim to improve accessible play in its parks, most recently at Pennyquick Park in Bath where an in-ground trampoline and a carousel accommodating wheelchairs were installed following an allocation of Neighbourhood CIL funding.
Councillor Tim Ball, cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services, said: “Royal Victoria Park is a flagship for the whole of Bath and North East Somerset and attracts both local residents and those from further afield.
“We want this amazing park and its wonderful play equipment to appeal to as many people as possible.
“An important aspect of play for children with disabilities is being able to interact with others and not feel separated, so I’m delighted that the new play unit and ability swing will enable families and friends to have fun together.”
