An accessible, natural playground in Barnes will be built with help from the Council’s Community Fund.

Friends of Suffolk Road Recreation have been awarded £15,000 to create a new dog free area in the Park with more seating and a playground with swings, climbing frames, a slide, trampoline and sandpit.

The project will also see new shrubs, trees and a wildflower meadow planted with picnic tables and benches helping to make the area family friendly.

Cllr Michael Wilson, Cabinet Member for Equality, Communities and the Voluntary Sector said: “It’s really important that the whole community feels they are able to use our parks and open spaces and this new area will allow families who are not dog-friendly to relax and play in Suffolk Road Rec.

“I am also delighted that there are plans to make the area accessible to children with disabilities so everyone can enjoy the playground."

Laura van der Beugel, Chair of Friends of Suffolk Road Rec said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this funding. It will really help us bring a fantastic new playground to Barnes.

“We are hoping to create a unique playground in Suffolk Road Rec which appeals to all ages as well as providing swings for disabled children, as there are none currently in Barnes. We are thrilled that our application for the grant was successful.”