Improvement works to Romano Park in Ingleby Barwick have been completed.

The bespoke play equipment includes the unique dragon fort and climbing 'bloqx' that were developed with input from local schoolchildren and members of the public.

Young people and the Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees marked the completion of the installation of the items at the play park and officially opened the new equipment.

The children, from nearby Barley Fields Primary School in Ingleby Barwick, were on the site to use the dragon fort for the first time. The dragon's features include a climbing wall, net and rock climber, a slide, balancing discs and intricate play panels.


Other additions to the playpark include a new basket swing and repairs and replacement of existing items in the play area.

In line with the Council's ambition to make the Borough's parks more inclusive for as many families as possible, the park also includes three new in-ground trampolines, accessible features on the dragon fort and a new sensory trail with musical instruments.

A community garden on the site and a planting scheme with trees, shrubs and benches are also part of the overall improvements. The growing area will allow direct access from All Saints Academy school for young people to enjoy as well as wider community groups.

There will also be better access to the platform near the Barwick Pond nature reserve and a re-marking of the Multi Use Games Area, which will allow children and young people to play various types of sports.

The work has created a key visitor attraction as part of the town's leisure offer and is part of the Council's town centres investment programme, ensuring they are vibrant places and fit for future generations.