A park in New Wortley is set to get its own dedicated play area with climbing equipment and an agility play trail, following a community consultation earlier this year.
After a successful bid for funding, Leeds City Council has announced that work will start on building the new playground this autumn at Oak Road Recreation Ground, known locally as Jailey Fields.
There will be a mix of play equipment for different ages, including swings, slide, climbing equipment, agility play trail and see-saw.
The existing youth shelter will be refurbished and new benches installed, and a nature trail will also be added to the park.
A Leeds City Council spokesperson said: “Many residents in the area have no direct outdoor access to yards or gardens and Oak Road Recreation Ground has long provided residents with access to green space and a multi-use games area.
“However, there have been calls for investments in a dedicated playground as some residents have said that ‘for us, play means jumping in the car’.”
In the summer of 2023, a partnership was formed by council officers and community groups to consult local residents and design a proposal for a play area where children and families can meet.
Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council’s executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, said: “New Wortley has been waiting a long time for a dedicated play area so we’re very pleased to have secured this funding. We want to ensure that wherever you live in Leeds, children have access to green spaces and opportunities to play.
“The addition of a playground in Oak Road Recreation Ground is another step in the right direction.”
The council secured funding from Veolia Environmental Trust, a charity operating under the Landfill Communities Fund.