Sheffield playground reopens with ssspectacular snake slide

The Parks and Countryside team have been working with the Friends of Hillsborough Park to deliver the £50,000 improvements with the aim of bringing a unique and exciting attraction to the playground.

Residents contributed to the playground design during an event held in the Walled Garden where locals gave their ideas and comments on three different options.

Phase one included the installation of the new equipment, as well as removal and replacement of damaged equipment. These improvements have been made possible from a range of funding including investment from Public Health funding, Section 106, Charitable investments and a donation from Tramlines.

Councillor Mary Lea, Cabinet Member for Culture, Parks and Leisure, said: “I think we can all agree that this first phase of improvements has already made a huge difference to the playground and I know that local people are very excited to start using the new equipment.

“Parks have been a lifeline for people during this pandemic, for leisure, fun, exercise and fresh air and we understand now more than ever just how important it is that we continue to invest in fantastic green spaces.

“Hillsborough Park has always been one of the city’s most loved parks, and with the new improved playground, plus our plans for phase 2, the All Wheeled bike track and Coach House community café next year, it is going to be a real destination for recreation in 2021.”

Councillor Bob Johnson, Cabinet Member for Transport and Development and councillor Hillsborough ward, said: “Hillsborough Park is real local gem, meeting the needs of so many people of all ages. With the first phase of playground improvements now complete, including the great new snake's head slide, it’s brilliant that we can reopen and welcome families back on to the play equipment.

"This was designed in partnership with local people, so we’re really pleased that they can now enjoy the benefits of this and look forward to developing phase two with the local community firmly at the heart of it.”