Some of the existing play equipment at the Lower Leas Coastal Park will be removed ahead of the fun zone’s highly anticipated refurbishment in 2026.
The tower structure, including the zipline, is to be taken down from today (Monday 8 December) to allow for cliff stabilisation work preparations to be carried out.
But there will still be equipment for children to enjoy – the spider web, pirate ship and sand diggers will remain in place over the Christmas break and beyond.
A complex remediation strategy is required to shore up the cliff following a landslide last year.
It involves high tensile mesh, soil nailing and draped netting to prevent any future landslips. Once this is complete in the new year, a new first class play area will be delivered.
Cllr Connor McConville, Cabinet Member for Assets and Local Government Reorganisation, said: “We’ve kept the existing fun zone equipment for as long as possible, but now is the time to remove it to ensure public safety and allow access to the cliff.
“There is still plenty of reason to visit the Lower Leas Coastal Park over Christmas – plus, these short-term changes will be more than worth it in the long run.”
It is expected the £750,000 refurbishment project will be completed ready for the 2026 summer season. The tender process is well underway, and the selected design will be shared with residents in the new year.