Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: September 15, 2025

Purpose: Agreement that we will invest in a small number of existing play spaces to improve their accessibility and inclusivity, and improve the play offering in 6 or 7 other sites.

Content: Cabinet agreed to:   i)  The sites for investment as proposed in appendix 1 of the report – enhancements to accessible play sites at Blakelaw Park, Riverside Country Park, Elswick Park and City Stadium (Ouseburn). Cabinet also agreed to note that alternative sites may have to be identified should the above four not be technically suitable determined by feasibility studies and initial design works.   ii)  Invest in play sites in the following wards – Parklands, Castle, Chapel, Arthurs Hill, Benwell and Scotswood, Byker and Walkergate, where they did not receive significant investment in previous programmes or there are sizable gaps in nearby provision.   iii)  Accept the Newcastle, Enhanced, Accessible and Inclusive Play Area Plan (2025), appendix 2 of the report.   iv)  Accept the Play Space Plan 2024 and adopt its recommendations, appendix 4 of the report.   v)  Agree the draw down of £1,285,878 from the Estate Management Fund reserve, £179,311 CIL and £34,811 S106 to fund the Newcastle Play Space Plan 2024.   vi)  The preferred procurement route to appoint a delivery partner.