News / playgrounds
£500,000 play area reopens with mixed reviews
A renovated play area has officially reopened but it is already facing criticism for being incomplete.
Colourful equipment, accessible swings, soft surfaces, picnic benches and improved pathways have been installed at Oldbury Court Estate, but one major feature is missing – the new look pirate ship.
The play area closed in November for the £500,000 upgrade and was due to reopen in late January.
Crowds flocked to see the redesigned park and to test out the playground during the Easter school holidays.
Bristol City Council confirmed that the pirate ship structure is still planned but will now be erected in a second phase of work starting on May 5. The play area will close again during this month-long installation.
New equipment is suitable for younger children
Nick Young said: “This is solely aimed at younger children. Where’s the sense of fun and danger from the big slide and big things to climb on? Shame – a wasted opportunity in my opinion.”
The pirate ship area is currently cordoned off
Adam Bates, a father of two children under three, noted that the large slide will be missed but is positive about the improvements after visiting the park on Monday.
He said: “It’s a good space and it looks a lot safer than what it was. I think before there were some health and safety issues. Our little one is having fun in the sand pit.”
The 40-year-old grew up near Oldbury Court and visited the park frequently as a child.
The entrance to Oldbury Court children’s play park
Fiona Cockell, who lives in Easton, recently brought her five-year-old grandson to the new play area. She made a special trip by bus to see the new equipment.
Fiona described the sand area as a highlight and praised the new swings as “a really good idea to make it more inclusive”.
Tanya T, from Lyde Green, said: “The kids are playing and are entertained. They’ve managed to stay quite engaged here.
“I don’t think it’s ideal for older children, but for preschoolers it’s absolutely brilliant. The trampoline is a big favourite with the kids.”
The new sand pit area has proven popular
Councillor Stephen Williams, chair of the public health and communities committee, said: “I’m delighted to see the reopening of the play area at Oldbury Court Estate, providing families with a refreshed and welcoming space to meet and enjoy.
“This investment reflects our commitment to providing high‑quality play spaces that encourage active lifestyles and give families welcoming places to spend time outdoors in one of our city’s most loved parks.”
A council spokesperson told Bristol24/7 the play area, complete with new pirate ship, should reopen in time for the Party in the Ponds celebration on June 13.
All photos: Sam McEvans
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