Redbridge opens new playground in Loxford Lane
Published: 26 April 2023
A brand new sensory playground for young children was recently unveiled in Loxford Lane.
The Sensory Playground was officially opened on the site of Loxford Leisure Centre by the Leader of Redbridge Council, Cllr Jas Athwal, who was joined by delighted children from Loxford First Step Preschool.
The new community facility was developed in response to consultation feedback on the redevelopment of Loxford Youth Centre. The Constance Bridgeman Centre (Loxford Youth Centre) is undergoing a significant refurbishment and is due to reopen in the summer.
As part of the consultation, the local community also asked the Council to relocate the Loxford First Step Preschool, which previously occupied the Youth Centre. The Preschool is now located at the old Caretaker's house of Loxford School.
Redbridge Council committed to relocating the Preschool to the Loxford Leisure Centre site while also pledging to enhance community facilities by delivering a sensory playground, which the Preschool could use during the day.
The sensory playground has been specifically designed with the development of younger children in mind, as well as those with special educational needs. The equipment enables stimulation of the senses in different capacities. The playground includes:
- musical chimes
- a storytelling corner
- a planter
- tactile sensory panels
- sensory spinners
- a chalkboard + whiteboard
- a sensory circuit, including a slide, balance beams, stepping posts and a clatter bridge
Speaking at the launch of the Sensory Playground, Cllr Jas Athwal said: "We're so proud to have delivered this Sensory Playground right in the heart of Loxford. Investing in spaces for children and young people is so important to making sure our borough is a perfect place for local families to put down roots.
"It was great to join the children from the Preschool at the launch and to see how much they enjoyed the fantastic new facilities. I look forward to returning when we officially open the new Youth Centre."
