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Work begins at Queensland Drive as city-wide playground improvement programme gets under way

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Following the completion of the playground at Wheatfield Road over the summer, work has now started on a major programme to improve playgrounds across Colchester, with Queensland Drive and Elizabeth Close the first sites to get under way.

The £2 million programme will see 36 playgrounds refurbished across the city, with play areas in every ward benefiting from investment. Sites have been prioritised following a detailed review of their condition, remaining lifespan, and accessibility needs.

The first phase includes the creation of an entirely new playground at Queensland Drive, providing a dedicated place for local children and families to play where one does not currently exist. Work has also begun at Elizabeth Close.

Investing in play across Colchester
The programme has been designed to target the playgrounds most in need of improvement, following a detailed review of play areas across Colchester. Sites were prioritised based on factors including the condition of equipment, remaining lifespan, and accessibility needs.

Other projects within the wider programme include a new fully accessible play area at High Woods Country Park, replacing the existing climbing wall, and a complete refurbishment of the playground at Boadicea Way.

A full list of the playgrounds being upgraded is available on the council’s playground refurbishment webpage. Subject to weather and construction schedules, the council aims to complete the programme this winter.

Creating more accessible places to play
A key aim of the programme is to improve accessibility wherever funding allows. Playground designs have been reviewed to identify opportunities for more inclusive equipment and better access, helping more children and families enjoy these important community spaces

Councillor Martin Goss, Portfolio Holder for Waste, Neighbourhoods and Leisure, said: “It’s fantastic to see work beginning at Queensland Drive and to reach this important milestone in our playground improvement programme.

“This investment will create a completely new playground for local families and is one of many improvements that residents will see taking place across Colchester over the coming months.

“We’re investing in playgrounds in every ward and making the most of every pound available to deliver better places for children to play and enjoy being outdoors.”

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