New play park opens in Barton – built by local families, for local families

Families in Barton-upon-Humber have a brand new place to play this Easter, as the transformed Baysgarth Park play area opens following a £150,000 upgrade.

What was once tired and underused is now a bright, busy space designed for all ages – from toddlers finding their feet to teenagers looking for somewhere to hang out.

The project has been shaped by the people who use it. Local children and young people were asked what they wanted to see during summer activities last year, and their ideas have helped turn the park into a space that gets more families outside, playing and spending time together.

Cllr Rob Waltham, leader, North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is exactly what we said we’d do – invest in our parks and back our communities. We’ve kept that promise.

“What makes this special is the people behind it. The Friends group, local schools, families – they’ve all helped shape this and now you can see the result. Kids out playing, trying new things, actually using the space again.

“That’s what this is about. Not just new equipment, but creating somewhere people want to be. A proper community space, built with local residents.”

The upgraded park includes:

• An inclusive play area with accessible equipment
• A family zone for younger children
• A teen area with a zip wire, five-way swing and slide
• Parts of the existing park have also been improved, with safer surfaces and repairs to well-used areas.

Cllr Paul Vickers, ward councillor for Barton, is chair of The Friends of Barton Parks. He said: “It is great to see families enjoying the brilliant new play area. It has been designed to give children – from toddlers to teenagers – a welcoming and inclusive space that encourages outdoor play, physical activity and social connections for years to come.

“This project is a great example of what can be achieved when the council works closely with the local community. We listened to residents and worked together to create something much better for everyone.”

The project was delivered in partnership with the Friends of Barton Parks, with funding from developer contributions, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Barton Town Council.