THE transformation of an empty inner city site into a "nature inspired" play area has been completed after 10 months of work.

The brand new play park, situated on land off Scotchman Road in Bradford, was officially opened on Saturday (June 19).

It features several wooden climbing structures, with wildflowers and tree planting working alongside landscaping to form natural elements with rocks and boulders for children to play on.

The focus here is on natural play, with a "kickabout" zone, a wooded area and new footpaths linking neighbouring streets.

A number of special guests helped cut the ribbon, including Councillors Fozia Shaheen, Arshad Hussain and Kamran Hussain - all who represent Labour in the Toller Ward.

The play area has been years in the making, with work finally getting underway on the project back in August 2020.

Read more about that here...

Before that, the scheme had been in the planning stages for several years, with a local consultation involving 2,000 children and local residents helping design the features in the play area.

It is aimed at children aged between four and 14.

Sonia Fayyaz, community engagement manager, who has taken a lead on the project said: “I am absolutely delighted to finally see the project come to fruition.

"The new play park will be a valuable asset in a highly built up area of Bradford, providing local families with much needed access to green space, which they can use to promote healthier lifestyles and for better health outcomes.

"I would sincerely like to thank all our key partner organisations who have worked closely with us to ensure voices from all areas of the community were heard in the co-designing and co-production of the programme, particularly from local children and their families who live around the site."

The transformation of the land was carried out by Bradford Council's Landscape Design and Conservation team in partnership with JU;MP (Join Us, Move Play), a Sport England funded scheme set up to encourage young people in inner city areas of Bradford.

Community engagement manager, Caroline Swain, who has taken a lead supporting role on the development said: “It is vital for children’s health, wellbeing and development that children have a safe, clean inspiring environment to play in.

"This new development in the heart of the community will offer a space for all to enjoy”.

As well as the Sport England funding, the project has also benefited from Emergency Active Travel funding - provided to help people get out and exercising as lockdown restrictions ease.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, healthy people and places portfolio holder, said : “We are delighted that this wonderful play area has been completed. Spaces like this are incredibly important for children’s wellbeing and development.

“Bradford is thankfully blessed with lots of brilliant parks and open spaces which enrich residents’ lives and provide natural havens for plants and wildlife.”

Councillor Arshad Hussain, said: “This new play area is very welcome and local families will make good use of it.

“This shows what can be achieved when agencies and local councillors work together to improve an area.  

“Green spaces like this have been invaluable in keeping people fit and well.”