Massive play tower to be built in children's park

A children's play park is set to gain a new attraction which will stand nearly 15m (49ft) tall.

The huge play tower is being built at Hardwick Park in Sedgefield as part of Durham County Council's work to redevelop play facilities.

Along with the tower, the area will have a zip-line, basket swing, hammocks, an accessible roundabout and outdoor musical instruments.

Councillor James Rowlandson said he hoped the new equipment would "take youngsters to new heights in their play and development".

"Hardwick Park is one of our busiest parks and welcomes 450,000 visitors each year," he said.

"We know the park is popular with families, so we've committed to developing the play area into a refreshed new space for children to play, develop their motor skills and spend quality time outdoors."

The tower will be the second of its kind in Europe and will be similar to its twin found in Bietigheim-Bissingen near Stuttgart, Germany.

It has been designed to complement the park's gothic gatehouse and tower, which was designed by architect James Pain in the 18th Century,

It will have rope chimneys, a net bridge, slides and sensory play elements and will allow children to enjoy views of the park from its viewing platform.

The play area near the tower is currently closed while the installation of the equipment is carried out. The park's other play areas close to the Tower Cafe remain open.

It is expected to open in the spring.

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