Bellingham Green Playground reopens with inclusive makeover

Bellingham Green’s much-loved playground has been transformed following a £55k refurbishment, bringing new life to a space that has served local families for over a century. 

The playground has been completely revitalised with brand new equipment, including inclusive play features designed for children with learning and physical disabilities such as a specialised swing, sensory play panels and improved landscaping for accessibility.  

The redesign was shaped by the local community, with families helping to choose the equipment and layout to ensure the space reflects the needs and imagination of Bellingham’s children. 

The refurbishment is part of Lewisham Council’s wider Play Strategy, which recognises the vital role of play in children’s development and wellbeing. The strategy aims to ensure that every child in the borough has access to high-quality, inclusive play spaces. To help re-launch the space, Cllr Louise Krupski and The Speaker of Lewisham Cllr Jacq Paschoud, visited the playground with local nursery children, parents and parks staff. 

Cllr Louise Krupski, Cabinet Member for Environment and Climate Action, said: 
“The transformation of Bellingham Playground is a fantastic example of what we can achieve when we work together with our communities. It’s now a space that welcomes all children, and we’re proud to see it brought back to life as part of our investment in the borough’s play spaces because we believe every child deserves the chance to play, explore and thrive.”  

Local parent Rowman who was visiting the park with his daughter Kaliyah said: "My daughter really does like the roundabout and stepping on the stepping stones, they have been a great new addition to the park."

The new playground is already proving popular with local families and is set to become a vibrant hub for play and connection in the heart of Bellingham. 

The funding for this refurbishment was provided by Veolia.