Children from Kingfisher CE Academy were given the honour of officially opening Wichelstowe’s newest play area this week, with pupils taking centre stage at a ribbon-cutting ceremony beside the development’s Boardwalk.
The new public space, located between Middle and West Wichel, has been designed for primary-age children and aims to provide families with a safe and accessible place to play outdoors.
Packed with swings, climbing equipment, multi-play units and picnic benches, the site also includes bucket swings for younger children and soft grass safety matting throughout. Newly planted trees, hedges and shrubs have been added to help the area blend into the wider landscape around the Boardwalk.
Among those invited to try out the equipment first was Kingfisher CE Academy pupil Charlotte, who described the launch as “so much fun”.
“I love the swings and the climbing frame, and I can’t wait to come back to play with all my friends,” she said.
The play area forms part of the wider Wichelstowe development, which continues to expand on the southern edge of Swindon with a focus on green spaces and community facilities alongside new housing.
Project Director Dan Pavely said seeing local children enjoying the space for the first time had been a highlight.
“Seeing our littlest VIPs take part in the ribbon-cutting and enjoy the play area was a real joy,” he said.
“I’m sure it will become a favourite spot for families to come together, play and make happy memories.”
The wider Wichelstowe scheme, being delivered in partnership with Swindon Borough Council, is expected to provide around 3,000 homes over the next two decades, alongside schools, sports pitches, allotments and conservation areas.
Residents already have access to more than 12 kilometres of walking and cycling trails, as well as open green spaces stretching across hundreds of acres near the Wilts and Berks Canal.
Barratt Homes Bristol is currently building homes at Orchards View and Wichel Fields, while David Wilson Redrow South West is developing Canalside and Orchards Rise.
