More than £1 million has been invested in improving facilities at the city’s play areas over the last six years, new figures have revealed.
The city council funds a rolling programme of repairs and improvements for play areas right across the city.
Between 2019 and 2025, more than 60 sites in Exeter have undergone improvements as part of the programme.
The figures show:
- A total of £1.2m total investment in play across the city since 2019
- £557,000 has been spent on item replacements, repairs and minor refurbishments
- £611,000 has been delivered through the Play Area Capital Programme for new installations and improvements
- 63 sites have received improvements to equipment in the last six years
- £41,000 has been spent maintaining the St Thomas Splash Pad
Among the major improvements that took place last year was Exwick Station Road play area.
Funding is already in place to continue the programme over the next two years for improvements at a number of sites across the city.
And further funding has been set aside to support future enhancement of the Heavitree paddling pool and play area.
The city council is responsible for maining more than 80 play facilities in the city.
Cllr Ruth Williams, Lead Councillor for City Development, said: “These play areas are really important to our residents.
“They provide great entertainment for children and are perfect for healthy, outdoor activities for a range of ages.
“They are also much-loved by parents because they provide free and fun play equipment close to where families live.”
Cllr Williams said she welcomed the investment the council has made in improving play equipment and facilities over recent years.
She said: “We have brilliant parks and green spaces in Exeter which are home to some fantastic play equipment. There are also a large number of smaller play areas right across the city which are maintained by the council. They are part of what makes Exeter special.
“Our rolling programme of repairs and improvements helps to ensure that the city’s play areas will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.”
Exeter has more than 250 acres of public open space. Together with the valley parks, public open space makes up 9.5% of the total area of the city.
Exeter parks and open spaces provide some of the most widely used social and recreational facilities for residents and visitors.
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