Plans for three more playground refurbishments have been finalised following consultation on the next phase of the Community Parks Programme.

During the pandemic, going outside to enjoy open spaces for fresh air, to connect with nature, to play and for exercise has been extremely important to our residents and Kingston Council are committed to continuing to invest in our green spaces.

In a move to further improve the borough's parks and to provide spaces for residents to get active in a safe and healthy way, three more playgrounds in the borough are set to be revamped:

Athelstan Recreation Ground playground

RAF Chessington playground

Sir Francis Barker Recreation Ground playground

More than 70 residents had their say on our initial proposals via the council's consultation portal and via 'virtual' drop-in sessions.

Local people responded positively to the preliminary plans and their suggestions have been incorporated into the final plans where possible.

Following feedback, Athelstan Rec's playground will now boast a trampoline and the sandpit will be adapted to make it easier to navigate for younger users, and the existing green climbing frame in Sir Frances Barker playground will be replaced with a new wooden robinia climbing frame.

Cllr Hilary Gander, Kingston Council's Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainable Transport said:

"We are wholly committed to protecting and enhancing our green spaces and through our community parks scheme we are investing £1.3 million to transform and revitalise playgrounds across the borough.

"Through the programme we have already transformed eight playgrounds, and we can't wait to get started on the next phase of improvement works.

"Thank you to everyone who shared their thoughts and ideas on our initial proposals. We know our parks have a special place in the lives of our communities and your feedback is incredibly important to us. With your help we have updated our designs to ensure that our playgrounds cater for all of our residents."

Work will begin on Athelstan Recreation Ground on 22nd March, RAF Chessington on 29th March and on Sir Francis Barker Recreation Ground on 19th April.

To view the final designs and to stay up to date on the latest information please click HERE