The toddlers’ playground in Coronation Park, also known as Millbrook Park, will be closed for six weeks from next week while the work is carried out. The area has not been updated since 1989.
However, the news that the playground by the park’s kiosk is to get a new surface and new equipment has received a mixed reaction from regular users.
The States released an artist’s impression of the refurbishment plans earlier this week on its Facebook page, where opinions on the scheme were split.
Some Islanders said they were excited and welcomed the new design, while others expressed disappointment, calling the new design ‘ugly’ and outdated, with one contributor asking why the new playground looked ‘like Benidorm’.
Some people said they had hoped to see more ‘natural materials’ used in the design, while others said they felt the design could become dated quite quickly.
Kaspar Wimberley said: ‘Fantastic to invest in spaces for families and children, but where is the earth, the water, the sand, the trees, etc. Why all the rubber or plastic-flooring materials?’
Philippa Alexandre added: ‘Looks like style over substance, as usual. Designed by people with no idea of child development.’
The new equipment is designed for children aged from three to six and includes swings, rockers, a see-saw, trampolines and roundabouts.
There will also be cradle swings and rockers that are suitable for younger children.
Infrastructure Minister Eddie Noel said: ‘Coronation Park is an important free facility for children to enjoy while being active, which enhances their health and wellbeing. These new replacement toddlers’ play facilities will maintain the high standards of our children’s play areas.
‘So that no one is left out, a lot of the equipment has been designed to allow disabled children with special needs to play alongside able-bodied children. One example of this inclusive equipment is this roundabout which is suitable for wheelchairs. All equipment will fully comply with the European Safety Standard.’
St Lawrence Constable Deidre Mezbourian added: ‘I welcome the initiative. The park has served generations of children, myself included. Outdoor play is healthy, particularly in early years development, and I support every effort to encourage children to enjoy being in the fresh air.’
During the work, which is being managed by the Department for Infrastructure, the remainder of the park, including the play area for older children, will remain open as usual.
