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Consultation on the development of new play area at Hardwick Park

Earlier this year, we asked you to tell us what you'd like to see included in a brand new play area at Hardwick Park in Sedgefield.

Thank you to everyone who took part. 360 people voted for favourite options and gave feedback on the proposals. To find out more about the consultation outcomes and the changes, please go to the bottom of this page

Background

Hardwick Park is one of the most popular parks in the North East drawing around 450,000 visitors per year to enjoy the wonderful grounds and facilities. Investment is currently being made to improve the park's play facilities for children and young people.

The new play area

The new play area will replace the existing play facility near the Tower and will be suitable for children aged seven and above to enjoy during their visit. This will be a welcome addition to the already popular play facilities onsite for younger children next to the Tower Café.

Have your say

You were able to vote on the different options available for play equipment and the design of the new play area in early 2023.

The closing date for comments was 5.00pm on 26 February 2023.

What's the latest?

Many of the most popular options are being included in the specification for the new play area, including the basket/bird's nest, shuggy boat swing and zip wire. We are also looking at including high towers with a long tunnel slide and a number of the most popular balancing and sensory options. We are considering:

a range of equipment to suit a large audience
more play equipment for older children
the need to be inclusive and include equipment for those with additional access needs
improving pedestrian access from Sedgefield village into the park
developing the café and shop areas to increase capacity and reduce waiting times

We expect work on the play area to start in Autumn and be completed by Spring 2024.

You also mentioned car parking charges. The charges go directly back into the park, improving the high quality green space for people and wildlife. We review prices regularly to make sure park visits are at an affordable level.

Contact Hardwick Park

Email hardwickpark@durham.gov.uk
Telephone 03000 262 899