Shiny new playground opens to crowds after months of work
Situated in Garth Park on Launton Road, Bicester, the long-awaited playground is part of a £400,000 scheme to install new play areas across the town in 2025 and 2026.
The town council held an official ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the mayor, Alissa Russell, during the Teddy Bears' Picnic at 1pm on Wednesday, August 6.
The ribbon cutting by Bicester mayor Alissa Russell (Image: Eddy Xi Gong)READ MORE: Firefighters take on epic 700 mile cycle and run feat in memory of fire victims
Councillor Donna Ford, who first proposed the play park upgrades in 2023, told this newspaper last month: "I hope that the reopening of the refurbished park will be an asset to our town and a positive step in helping to revitalise our town centre.
"I'm still hoping that in the future the council will reconsider adding a splash park."
In February 2024 a survey was launched for feedback on four design options for the play area at Garth Park.
An engagement event was held on February 27 this year at the park, where residents viewed the plans and shared feedback.
Designs submitted by UK playground suppliers Kompan Let's Play during the consultation process confirmed plans for 45 play features which would cater to more than 100 children, with an age range of two to 14 years old.
The grand opening of the playground (Image: Eddy Xi Gong) Construction of the new playground began in May.
Councillor Sean Gaul welcomed the upgrade, saying Garth Park holds a special place in the community.
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He previously said: "This is an incredibly exciting time for Bicester. Garth Park is of huge importance to the town.
"Growing up in Bicester myself, Garth Park was always the best park in town and I pay huge congratulations to my colleagues on Bicester Town Council for putting so much investment into what many families across all of Bicester will spend many hours enjoying."
Councillor Sam Holland also previously praised the project, saying: "It's excellent news to finally see the park get its long planned upgrade and for kids in Bicester to have somewhere really great to use.
The grand opening of the playground (Image: Eddy Xi Gong) "This update has been in the works for a number of years and I am glad it's finally been realised."
A statement issued by the town council on Thursday, August 7, said: "A huge thank you to everyone who came along to the Teddy Bears Picnic yesterday - what an amazing day it was.
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"The sun was shining, the crowds came out in force, and the atmosphere was filled with smiles, laughter, and a little bit of teddy bear magic.
"We're so grateful to all our wonderful vendors, performers, and helpers who made the event such a success.
"This event has always been one of Bicester Town Council's favourite traditions, and after running family fun days for many years, we were absolutely thrilled to bring it back.
"We loved seeing so many families enjoying the day - thank you for making it so special."
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