Beaudesert and Henley-in-Arden Joint Parish Council were successful in their application for £43,928.65 to install inclusive and sensory play equipment at two play parks in Henley-in-Arden: Jubilee Park and The Riverlands.

Both parks, which are enjoyed by many local families, currently consist of traditional, elevated equipment, which is unsuitable for wheelchair users, disabled children or children with sensory or neurodiverse needs. These means that many families are unable to use their local parks, increasing exclusion, reducing physical activity and providing limited opportunities for social interaction. Feedback from families encouraged the Joint Parish Council to apply for the grant to transform both sites by installing inclusive, accessible and sensory-friendly play equipment ensuring that children of all abilities can use and enjoy the parks safely, confidently and alongside their peers.

Equipment to be installed includes; at Jubilee Park, a wheelchair accessible roundabout, a basket/net swing and sensory play panels (which are tactile, musical and visual) and improved surfacing to support wheelchair access; and at Riverlands, a sensory trail incorporating tactile, musical and nature-linked elements, ground level play panels and a play hut, as well as improved surfacing and an inclusive picnic bench.

Cllr Wendy Andrews, Chair of the Joint Parish Council, said:

"We are delighted to receive this funding, which will enable us to deliver meaningful improvements to play spaces across Henley-in-Arden. This project reflects our commitment to creating inclusive, accessible environments where all children and families can feel welcome and supported. By investing in high-quality, sustainable facilities across two parks, we are strengthening community wellbeing and ensuring our public spaces meet the needs of a growing and diverse town - both now and into the future."

Works are due to commence following the summer holidays, so watch this space for more updates...