A fully refurbished play area has been unveiled at Grampian Avenue in East Belfast, with a range of new facilities catering for special needs.
The newly upgraded playground includes a wide range of play equipment. Among the highlights are acoustic features for sensory play, an accessible springer with side and back support, a wheelchair-accessible roundabout, and a play tower with a slide that features transfer decks, a drag ramp and inclusive net.
The popular tyre swing has been retained and repaired, while a new toddler swing and a special needs swing seat have also been installed. A wheelchair-accessible picnic table ensures the space is inclusive for families and carers too.
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An addition to the site is a communication board, designed to support non-verbal children. Using symbols, the board helps children express their feelings, make choices and interact with others, encouraging play and communication.
Chair of the People and Communities Committee, Councillor Ruth Brooks, said: “It’s fantastic to see how this space has been transformed into an area where all children can enjoy playtime together. It’s not just about new equipment, it’s about creating a city where no child is left out.
"There is a real and urgent need to enhance visibility and accessibility for children with additional needs across Belfast. The inclusion of communication boards is a meaningful step in that direction.
"These boards use simple symbols and images to help non-verbal children express themselves. How they feel, what they want to do and how to interact with others around them. That’s not just about play, it’s about inclusion, connection and dignity.
"Feedback from parents, carers and schools has been critical in shaping this approach. I’m delighted that this is just the beginning, with more of these boards being installed at playgrounds across the city in the coming months.
"Every child deserves to be seen, heard, and included and we’re committed to making that happen.”
The enhancements extend beyond play equipment, with natural landscaping including swathes of grass, a feature tree and boundary hedge planting. These additions provide important opportunities for children to connect with nature in an otherwise built-up area.
Following consultation with local schools that support non-verbal children, two more communication boards will be installed at Alderman Tommy Patton and Taughmonagh playgrounds later this month. Funding has also been secured to roll out additional boards to more playgrounds across Belfast throughout the year.
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