Chancellor set to pump millions into playgrounds at the Budget

Playgrounds across England are set for a major makeover, with the Chancellor expected to announce £18 million to revamp play areas at Budget.

Rachel Reeves will spruce up local communities with makeover cash for 200 children’s play parks across the country.

Evidence shows there are stark inequalities across England when it comes to accessing the outdoors – with children from poorer households spending much less time outside than children from wealthier families.

Outdoor play is crucial for children’s health and wellbeing, so the Chancellor is ensuring every child can enjoy the benefits it brings by delivering on the Government’s commitment to break down barriers to opportunity so every child can thrive.

This funding comes as the Chancellor is set to deliver a Budget that makes the fair choices to deliver on the country’s priorities to cut NHS waiting lists, cut national debt and cut the cost of living. 

The playground investment follows the launch of government’s landmark Pride in Place programme - a record £5 billion initiative letting local communities decide how local funding is spent to regenerate their public spaces.

An HMT source said:

This funding will breathe new life into play areas across England, creating safe, exciting spaces for thousands of children.

It will enrich and empower communities – giving every child a place to play and grow, wherever they live.