Children of all abilities can now enjoy new inclusive play equipment at Beacon Park after an accessible bouncer opened in Lichfield.

The equipment has been installed in the children's play area as part of Lichfield District Council's continued investment in accessible play.

It was funded through the Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund in support of the council's Clean and Green programme, with additional backing from Jetts 24hr gym and The Rotary Club of Lichfield St Chad through the Boosting Beacon campaign.

The council said the bouncer is designed for a wider range of children, creating more opportunities for families to play together at one of the district's most popular parks.

Ribbon cut on new inclusive play equipment

Grace Riley, 15, officially opened the bouncer and was among the first to try the new equipment. Grace uses a wheelchair and has Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis.

“I really like the new bouncer in Beacon Park. It's really fun and it feels like when I was younger before this arthritis got this bad. Now I can finally go trampolining again.”

Councillor Phil Whitehouse, cabinet member for operational services, parks and waste, said making the district's parks inclusive was an important part of the council's commitment.

“The new accessible bouncer is a fantastic addition to Beacon Park and means even more children can play together, regardless of their abilities.

“We're grateful to everyone who helped make this possible through UK Shared Prosperity Funding and the support of our corporate sponsors. It is another example of how partnerships are helping us continue to invest in high-quality parks and green spaces across the district.”

Partnership supports Beacon Park improvements

Michael Mullarkey, president of The Rotary Club of Lichfield St Chad, said the club was pleased to contribute to the new accessible play equipment and hoped children would enjoy using it.

The installation follows other improvements to play facilities, landscaping and the visitor experience at Beacon Park. The accessible bouncer is now open for families to use.

The story details, quotations and photograph were supplied by Lichfield District Council for editorial publication.