Work begins on new Seaburn play park

Work has begun on the construction of a brand-new outdoor children's play park on land straddling Cut Throat Dene in Seaburn.

The project, which forms part of a significant investment in the area, is transforming the leisure offer for local residents and creating an active destination for visitors of all ages.

The council has worked closely with children from Seaburn Dene primary school who have actively participated in the design process, with the aim to create a standout play area that beckons families from near and far.

Planning consent was granted in February 2024 and on 18 March 2024 eight children visited the site to witness the commencement of the construction works which are due to be complete later in the Summer.

Situated just behind the Seaburn Inn and Prego, the park's design utilises high-quality materials and vibrant colours with the aim of supporting children's physical, social and cognitive development through multiple forms of play.

Play equipment has been carefully selected and will be sited within landscape features such as play mounds, sand pits, and planted areas, and traditional play features such as swings, slides, and roundabouts.

The park will also feature bespoke pieces of equipment such as tall towers, climbing walls, and bridges, to create a visually stimulating and exciting space.

Cllr Kevin Johnston, portfolio holder for dynamic city at Sunderland City Council, said: "The new play park will be yet another fantastic addition to the seafront, complementing the ongoing developments in the area and bringing the council's investment in the area to over £15m with a further £30m investment by private sector partners in developments including the Seaburn Inn, the Stack, and the Tram Shelter.

"It promises to be a vibrant hub for families, providing inclusive and engaging spaces for children of all abilities to play, learn and thrive. The project really exemplifies our commitment to creating a community where everyone feels welcome and included.

"I am confident that the play park will become a real attraction, drawing visitors from across the city and beyond and become a key cornerstone in the community."

Working with Sunderland City Council's smart city partner Boldyn Networks, the park will feature interactive digital play equipment bringing an added dimension to the play offer.   

The project will be delivered by Gateshead-based firm BCE Northern Ltd. Adrian Barton, director of BCE Northern Ltd, said: "We are delighted to be involved in such a rewarding project to transform this outdoor space in Seaburn into a safe and exciting play area that the children can enjoy and thrive in, and we're excited to bring the local schoolchildren's visions to life.

"We are committed to enhancing the wellbeing and inclusive accessibility opportunities in the communities that we work in and are always thrilled to deliver local projects like this one.

"We have worked with the council on some fantastic regeneration and play park projects in the past including Town Park and St. Peter's Church, so we are eager to help bring something exciting to the seafront for families near and far to enjoy."