New play areas open in Derby as communities come together to celebrate

Tue 21 Apr 2026

There has been plenty to celebrate in Derby recently with two newly improved play areas officially opening for local families to enjoy.

At Stockbrook Park pupils from Firs Primary School The Bemrose School and Becket Primary School joined staff and local residents to mark the opening of brand new play equipment. The event had a real community feel with children quickly making the most of the new climbing unit and swings which were a big hit throughout the day.

The celebrations also included a special moment to recognise local green heroes with a community award presented to those helping care for Derby’s outdoor spaces.

Over in Shelton Lock the refreshed play area at Queensferry Gardens has also officially reopened following a major upgrade by Derby City Council.

The space has been completely transformed as part of the council’s Capital Rolling Programme with a bigger and better range of equipment for children of all ages. Whether its climbing running around or just enjoying being outdoors there is now even more to keep young visitors active and entertained.

A big focus of the redesign has been making sure the space works for everyone. The new layout is more accessible and inclusive so children of all abilities can enjoy it. Local residents also had their say on the design helping shape how the play area looks and feels today.

There are a few extra touches too including new seating for parents and carers static goal posts for a kickabout and more bins to help keep the area looking its best.

The reopening was marked with a visit from the Mayor of Derby alongside local councillors and pupils from Shelton Junior School. Members of the school council who had been following the project were invited along to be part of the day.

Speaking about the new space Shelton Junior School headteacher Mr Bacon said:

Pupils had been very excited about the new play area and were thrilled to see it open adding that it will be a great space for both the school and the wider community.

With improvements now complete at both sites it is another great boost for Derby’s green spaces giving more families places to play relax and spend time together outdoors.