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# Work begins on new Chantry Park play area in £3.5m Ipswich scheme
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/work-begins-on-new-chantry-park-play-area/
- Published: 2025-05-19T11:20:02.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:12:09.000Z
- Description: Construction started today on a brand-new children's play area in Chantry Park, the eighth upgrade in Ipswich's £3.5m play area strategy.
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, Public Spaces, Councils, #article, Ipswich Borough Council, #Import 2026-03-16 14:45

**Why it matters:** This development is part of an ambitious council programme to upgrade more than 40 play spaces across Ipswich by 2027, providing improved recreational facilities for local families.

![A 3d render of the new music and play areas at Chantry Park](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1747653095-chantry-park-play-area-music-area-edited-1.png)

A 3d render of the new music and play areas at Chantry Park (Kompan)

**The details:** The new playground will feature 120 play elements across dedicated zones for children aged 0 to 14, including:

- A music area inspired by iconic gigs held in the park, featuring bongos and guitar panels
- Inclusive equipment including wheelchair-accessible swings and carousel
- An 'enchanted grove giants unit' taller than a double-decker bus with a large tube slide
- A dedicated chill-out zone for teenagers
- Various sensory equipment at different heights for children of all abilities
- Two composting toilets with baby-changing facilities will be installed adjacent to the play area.

**What they're saying:** "I'm really excited that work is starting on this fantastic new play area. This is exactly the kind of provision that will enhance the enjoyment of Ipswich outdoors for young families – safe, enjoyable and modern equipment that children and young people of all abilities can use for fun and exercise," said Councillor Lucy Trenchard, portfolio holder for parks and climate change.

![A map of the new play area at Chantry Park](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1747653164-chantry-park-new-play-area-edited-1.png)

A map of the new play area at Chantry Park (Kompan)

**By the numbers:** This marks the eighth of over 40 play areas planned for upgrade under the £3.5m strategy.

**What's next:** The new facility is being built in a different location within the park, allowing the existing playground to remain open during construction. The completed play area is scheduled to open later this summer.

**The bottom line:** The project incorporates feedback from local parents, particularly regarding spacing around equipment and new paths, reflecting the council's commitment to creating accessible and inclusive play spaces for all children.

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