New play area and outdoor gym opens at Standish park

A popular play area in Standish has reopened with brand-new equipment after investment from Wigan Council.

Upgrades to Ashfield Park, on Wigan Road, include a new multi-play unit and netted climbing frame, along with swings, see-saws, balance beams and more.

Developed with input from local residents group Standish Voice, the area has been designed for all abilities – with wheelchair-accessible pathways and equipment plus quiet zones and sensory textures created with SEND children in mind.

The refreshed recreation space also has a new outdoor gym where residents of all ages will be able to exercise outdoors.

Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet portfolio holder for communities and neighbourhoods, said: “We know how much Ashfield Park means to Standish residents, so we’re really pleased to have delivered this new play area and outdoor gym for everyone to enjoy.

“Our parks are a real source of pride and play an important role in our communities as spaces to relax, connect and be active.

“Children and families will be able to enjoy this new play equipment for years to come, while the addition of the new outdoor gym creates another opportunity for residents to get out and get moving to support their health and wellbeing.

“It’s great to see how it’s all turned out, and we hope residents will be really happy with the results.”

The new play equipment is designed to promote physical activity, cognitive development, social interaction and imaginative play in youngsters.

Meanwhile, the installation of permanent outdoor gym equipment follows on from a temporary ‘pop-up’ gym that was made available in late summer.

It will be free to use all year round, and the council’s Be Well service will also be offering free instructor-led activities to encourage residents to make use of it.

Part of the council’s wider investment in local green spaces, the play area and outdoor gym are the latest upgrades to Ashfield Park following significant improvements to footpaths in the past 12 months.

Plans are also in the works to enhance the four playing fields so local football teams can play more games there.

Coun Ready added: “The procurement process for the pitches is already underway, with work to take place next year. It’s going to be fantastic when it’s all finished!”