Florence Hayes Recreation Ground reopens with a focus on inclusive play

We’re pleased to share that Florence Hayes Recreation Ground has reopened following a six-month closure to deliver improvements as part of Enfield Council’s Shaping Edmonton programme.

This redevelopment has been shaped by feedback from the local community and has a clear focus: to create a space where all children and families feel welcome. A key priority has been improving access to play, with the park being redesigned to provide inclusive and accessible play opportunities for children of all ages, needs and abilities.

The renewed play area has been carefully developed to support different types of play and ensure that children can enjoy the space together, regardless of their needs. New equipment has been introduced to support sensory, physical and social play, helping to create a more inclusive environment.

We’ve highlighted some of the key new inclusive play features below:

Inclusive play features

The slide with rope climbing and sloped pathway – children can climb up the mound using the ropes or walk up a step free access to the slide.

The scooter track is a space for children to scoot, cycle or roll their way around the track.

The climbing frame has bright, contrasting colours, to help with visibility.

A sensory trail is dotted around the park that children can play with.

Each play station has simple signage explaining how to play there.

An existing basket swing has been relocated to the front of the park; children of all abilities can use the swing.

Beyond the play area, improvements across the park help make the space more welcoming and easier to use for everyone. A new landmark play feature near the Fore Street entrance creates a stronger sense of arrival, while changes to planting and tree canopies open views into the park and improve visibility.

Existing mounds have been improved to support climbing and sliding, encouraging imaginative and adventurous play. New accessible seating and picnic areas provide comfortable places for parents and carers to spend time, and the refreshed Multi-Use Games Area offers more opportunities for a range of activities.

Together, these changes create a park that is more inclusive, more welcoming and better connected to the community it serves. We look forward to welcoming you back to Florence Hayes Recreation Ground and seeing how people use and enjoy the new space.