Families in Worcester have a refreshed place to play this summer holidays after a popular playground reopened following a six-figure makeover.
The Horizon Hub play area in Worcester has new equipment and an expanded layout following a £102,400 upgrade by Worcester City Council, funded through developer contributions tied to planning agreements.
Councillor Hannah Cooper, vice chair of the council’s Place and Economic Development Committee, said: “It’s fantastic to see the refurbished play area already being enjoyed by children during the summer holidays.
“Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their ideas and comments during the consultation phase.
“The result is a more inclusive play space that caters for children of all ages and abilities.”
The redesign preserves a mature sycamore tree and adds a circular seat around it to create a shaded resting area.
The park now extends onto an embankment beside Stanley Road and features a new pedestrian entrance to improve accessibility.
The embankment play area includes a double-width wavey slide, scramble net, and wildflower garden.
Additional inclusive play features include a ground-level trampoline and a carousel.
Existing equipment such as toddler and junior climbing frames, as well as the youth shelter, have been retained.
Cllr Cooper said: “We’ve also been able to make better use of the natural landscape and green spaces around the park, creating an improved play area for everyone to enjoy.”
The work was completed by Wicksteed.
Horizon Hub is the latest refurbishment as part of the Worcester Play Plan, which aims to improve outdoor play facilities across the city.
The plan also includes recent upgrades to Ronkswood Hub and ongoing works at Medway Road play area, which are expected to be completed next month.
Further improvements are planned for Power Park in St Peter’s, with resident consultations on proposed designs due to take place later this year.
