A new accessible play space is planned in Cheltenham’s Burrow’s Fields for every child

Cheltenham is hoping to become home to a groundbreaking fully inclusive playground, thanks to a partnership with Cheltenham Borough Council and Leckhampton Rovers FC (LRFC).

Located at Burrow’s Fields, the new playground will replace the existing outdated facility, offering play items designed for children of all abilities.

This initiative is a first for the region and aims to ensure that every child, regardless of their ability, can enjoy a welcoming and engaging play experience.

This new playground will be fully inclusive, featuring accessible equipment and surfaces, sensory and motion play, and spaces where children of all abilities can play side by side. Designed with input from children themselves, it will be a safe, welcoming, and sustainable community space built to inspire joy, confidence, and connection.

The playground is set to include:

• An accessible climbing frame, trampoline, roundabout, and seesaw
• Swings for children of all abilities
• Sensory and movement-based play experiences
• Comfortable rest areas for parents, carers, and grandparents

The project has garnered significant support from local parents, disability charities, our MP, councillors, residents, schools, and pre-school groups, representing hundreds of children. Tweedy the Clown, the ambassador, has committed to opening the playground upon its completion in 2027.

The campaign is anchored by a personal and compelling narrative: one of the committee members is the parent of twins, Harry and Freddie. While Harry is fully able, Freddie has Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy and relies on a wheelchair. Their story underscores the necessity for an inclusive environment, as many existing playgrounds accommodate children like Harry, but not Freddie.

The path to the opening of this playground will develop over the next few months. Initial designs from playground suppliers and some financial support has already been established.

Meanwhile, the team is actively pursuing additional funding and aims to secure a business sponsor. Conversations regarding in-kind contributions from local businesses are already in progress.

Adam Reynolds, parks and public realm manager for Cheltenham Borough Council, said: "This inclusive playground is not just a project; it's a promise to our community. It's about creating a space where every child can thrive, play, and grow without limitations.

“We are committed to fostering an environment where laughter and joy have no barriers, and every child feels a sense of belonging."

Mark Beaney, LRFC Trustee in charge of community projects, said: “Every child deserves the chance to laugh, play, and have fun. A trip to the playground for all families is about exploring opportunities, not a reminder of barriers. This inclusive playground is about changing that. We are creating a space where children of all abilities can play side by side with their friends and family and simply enjoy being children.

“I hope it becomes a place where everyone feels welcome, valued, and included. We already have Smiths Gloucester Limited as a business partner and would love to find others that would like to get involved with us and make this happen. The sound of every child laughing together is what true inclusion is.”

This playground marks the next phase of development for Burrow’s Fields. Over the past few years, Leckhampton Rovers have invested over £1.1 million into the site, including:

New pitches and drainage
The Dug Out Café
A pavilion with modern sustainable facilities
Outdoor seating areas
Equipment storage
Over 2,500 trees and plants
A sustainability trail and app

Find the Just Giving link to donate to this cause here.

For press enquiries contact: communications@cheltenham.gov.uk, 01242 264231

A new accessible play space is planned in Cheltenham’s Burrow’s Fields for every child

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