Local families will have yet another play area to enjoy this summer, as a brand-new park officially opened in Oakhill yesterday.

The spacious playpark, just off Otterburn Crescent, is made from robust and rot resistant Robinia wood. Residents had their say in the design and apparatus of the playpark during a consultation held last year, and the newly unveiled park incorporates some of the main suggestions such as a zipwire.

Other features of the park include a seesaw, slide, mini roundabout, large swing, and climbing equipment.

Dozens of residents, including pupils from neighbouring Hazeley Academy, were among those who attended the opening. The ribbon was cut by Ward Councillor Zoe Nolan (Cabinet Member, Children and Families) and Councillor Lauren Townsend (Cabinet Member, Public Realm).

Councillors Shanika Mahendran (Loughton & Shenley Ward) and Emily Darlington (Cabinet Member, Adults, Housing & Healthy Communities) were also in attendance.

Loughton & Shenley Labour Ward Councillors Zoe Nolan and Shanika Mahendran said:

“We’re thrilled to have opened the brand-new playground today, just in time for the start of the summer holidays. We have worked hard to bring a new park to the ward, and have worked closely with residents to ensure it is just as they want it to be.

“This will be a great addition to the community and we can’t wait for everybody to enjoy it.”

Labour Councillor Lauren Townsend, Cabinet Member for Public Realm, added: “It was an honour to open the new playpark in Oakhill, as every grid square in the city now has a park of their own. We committed to opening a play park on the estate as part of our new Council Plan, and I thank everybody involved for helping us achieve that aim.”