By KLTV Newsdesk – 

Work to begin this month on modern, inclusive play space for children and families across Kirklees

Work is set to begin on a brand-new adventure playground at Cliffe House, bringing a much-loved community space back to life for children and families across Kirklees.

Construction started this week, with the finished playground expected to open to school residential groups and visitors in May 2026, weather permitting.

While building work is underway, the existing adventure playground will be closed to the public. However, the wider Cliffe House grounds and other facilities will remain open as normal.

The investment aims to create a modern, safe and inclusive play space that supports outdoor activity, learning and family time.

A safer, modern place to play

The new playground will replace the former facility with equipment that meets current safety standards. The upgraded play space is designed to give children a high-quality environment to explore, while providing reassurance for parents and carers.

Once complete, the playground will offer a welcoming place for children to play, discover and socialise.

A destination for families across Kirklees

The playground will serve both local residents and visitors from across the wider Kirklees area and neighbouring towns. The development is intended to help Cliffe House continue growing as a destination for outdoor play and family visits.

Council leaders say the project will strengthen Cliffe House’s role as an important community asset for both residents and visiting school groups.

Inclusive design for all children

Accessibility and inclusion are at the heart of the new design. Features will ensure children of all abilities, including those with disabilities, can play and explore together.

Sensory elements will also be incorporated into the playground to support children who benefit from different ways of interacting with their surroundings.

Supporting children’s health and wellbeing

Outdoor play plays an important role in children’s physical development, confidence and wellbeing. The new equipment will encourage physical activity, imaginative play and exploration in a safe outdoor environment.

The playground will also provide a space for families to spend time together, relax and create lasting memories.

Local children helping shape the project

Young people from the local community will also have the opportunity to contribute to the project.

Pupils from Shepley First and Nursery School will take part in engagement activities linked to the development. As part of this, children will design a banner for the site by drawing native animals, which will then be digitally reproduced and displayed at the playground.

Visual materials and walk-throughs will also be shared with pupils so they can see what the new playground will look like once complete.

Organisers hope to extend these creative activities to school groups visiting Cliffe House on residential trips, helping children feel a sense of pride and ownership in the space.

Construction timeline

Work on the playground is scheduled as follows:

• Start date: 9 March 2026

• Expected completion: May 2026 (weather dependent)

• Adventure playground status: Closed during construction

Families are being thanked for their patience while the work takes place, with the finished playground set to provide a safer, more inclusive and inspiring space for children across Kirklees.