Why it matters: The new play area prioritises accessibility and inclusion, ensuring children of all abilities can play together with equipment specifically designed to support those with communication difficulties, visual impairments, and mobility needs.
The details: Construction begins Turesday, 20 January, on the brand-new children's play area, which will include 29 pieces of play equipment for children aged between one and 14 years old.
Inclusive equipment features:
A wheelchair-accessible carousel
Braille alphabet and number play panels
Sign language learning equipment
A communication panel with symbols designed specifically for children who have difficulty communicating, allowing them to share their thoughts by pointing at different symbols
The bigger picture: The space celebrates the history of Murray Road Recreation Ground, which was once a horse racing course, through a one-of-a-kind Suffolk Punch horse and racing-themed equipment including a starting block with binoculars, a show jumping panel and trail, a winner's podium, and a racetrack.
The work is part of the council's overarching £3.5m play area strategy for Ipswich, with Murray Road Recreation Ground being the first site of 2026 to begin construction.
What they're saying: Councillor Lucy Trenchard, Ipswich Borough Council portfolio holder for parks and climate change, said: "I'm pleased that work on yet another play area in Ipswich will be beginning today, to give children more space to get outside, use their imagination and play.
"The horse themed play equipment is a great way to mark the history of our town, and we hope it will give children a greater knowledge of where they live, whilst giving them a place to reenact the horse races that happened there many years ago."
What's next: The current play area will remain closed for safety reasons during construction. The new play area is due to open in spring 2026.
The bottom line: Murray Road Recreation Ground's new play area will provide accessible, inclusive play opportunities for all children, ensuring those with different abilities can explore, learn, and play together in a space that celebrates Ipswich's heritage.
