A new adventure playground in a popular Bucks park drew a huge crowd to its grand opening event despite the rainy weather.

Buckinghamshire Council unveiled its design for the 'bigger and better' play area in Higginson Park, Marlow back in June and, two months later, after minor delays, that design has become a reality.

Following weeks of speculation, the playground was officially opened by local officials this week, with a representative from the council describing it as "an innovative area where children can play, explore and let their imaginations run free".

One parent, who works as a speech therapist and was visiting the playground with her seven-year-old daughter, praised the 'Communications Board' on the side of the park railings, which was created to help young children develop their communication skills by pairing symbols with early-learning words and phrases. 

Bucks Free Press:

Another parent, whose son was just three-years-old, said they were glad Buckinghamshire Council had taken residents' feedback into consideration and added a dedicated pathway between the playground and the nearby Higginson Park cafe and public toilets.

They added: "We got here an hour before it opened because we were so excited! We really missed not having a play area so close nearby and it's great timing now, with the school holidays just beginning." 

The jumping trampoline and 'you and me' swing seat were especially popular with children of all ages, with toddlers and pre-teens braving the rain to test out the new equipment.

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@bucks.free.press Higginson Park in Marlow re-opened today with "bigger and better" refurbishments. Read more on the Bucks Free Press tomorrow #Bucks #Buckinghamshire #Marlow #Playground #Park #HigginsonParkMarlow ♬ Play Hard (feat. Ne-Yo & Akon) [R3hab Remix] - David Guetta

Other fixtures included a large multi-play ship unit, a wheelchair-friendly roundabout and a giant 'Cocowave' swing, several of which were constructed from recycled materials.

Clive Harriss, Buckinghamshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure said he was “absolutely delighted” that the play area was finally open for local families.

“With its imaginative design and inclusive equipment, the space encourages adventure and active play for children of all ages, abilities and needs.

“Sensory elements make it an engaging and educational environment as well. We hope to see many smiling faces enjoying the park throughout the summer holidays and beyond!”