Haringey Council has begun a major upgrade of four playgrounds to create more accessible and engaging spaces for children, with closures already in effect at three sites and a fourth set to close later this month.
Closures and timeline for playground improvements
Play areas at Downhills Park, Markfield Park, and Lordship Recreation Ground closed earlier this month, while Bruce Castle Park will follow from the week commencing Monday 21 September 2026. The work is part of Haringey Council’s improvement scheme to deliver new equipment and inclusive play features.
Erin Wolson, Haringey Council’s cabinet member for culture and leisure, said: “I’m delighted that we’re carrying through with these improvement works to children’s playgrounds. Having playgrounds that are accessible, inclusive and safe to exercise, play and socialise in is fundamentally important to the development of young children.”
Community input shapes new play features
The upgrades follow extensive community engagement and input from residents and Friends groups. Wolson added: “By adopting a participatory budget approach with this project, Haringey residents have had a real and tangible say on what improvements they want in their local parks and I cannot wait for the upgraded playgrounds to re-open.”
Improvements will include inclusive and sensory play features, inclusive swings and roundabouts, large climbing and multi-use play areas, improved seating, nature-themed play areas, and upgraded safety surfacing.
Specific plans for each park
At Bruce Castle Park, plans include a toddler and nature play area, lookout tower, and pathways. Downhills Park will feature a large climbing and multi-use play area with inclusive and sensory play features and nature-themed play spaces. Lordship Recreation Ground will see the addition of a cableway, a trampoline, and an inclusive roundabout. Markfield Park’s upgrades include inclusive and sensory play features, repair of popular play items, and improved surfacing.
Haringey Council expects Downhills Park, Lordship Recreation Ground, and Markfield Park playgrounds to reopen in late October at the very earliest, while Bruce Castle Park will remain closed until mid-November.
Alternative playgrounds during closures
During the closures, families are encouraged to use alternative playgrounds. Visitors to Downhills Park and Lordship Recreation Ground are advised to visit Chestnuts Park. Those who frequent Bruce Castle Park and Markfield Park can use Down Lane Park and Paignton Park.
A council spokesperson said: “We understand these temporary closures may cause disruption and thank residents for their patience while the improvements are carried out.”
