New accessible playground equipment and coloured play markings at Mardyke Open Space

Mardyke Playground Reopens After £90,000 HRA-Backed Upgrade.

12th November 202612th November 2026 The Havering Daily 0 Comments Havering Parks, Havering Residents Association, Mardyke, Mardyke Play Area min read

The new equipment includes accessible features, following a campaign by Beam Park residents for a better local play area.

Families in Beam Park can once again use the playground at Mardyke Open Space after refurbishment work was completed. Photographs supplied to The Havering Daily show new climbing and sliding equipment, swings, improved surfacing and inclusive play facilities.

The Havering Residents Association (HRA) announced the reopening in a statement on 11 November. The group said the project was funded by a £90,000 investment secured during the previous HRA administration of Havering Council.

The funding is not a new announcement. The Havering Daily reported the £90,000 allocation in February, after residents had raised concerns over worn equipment, damaged surfaces and the condition of the open space.

Residents Carol and Rob Baker had pursued improvements with the council, while former HRA cabinet members Graham Williamson and Barry Mugglestone visited the site in August 2025. The HRA has credited that work with helping secure the investment.

Carol Baker said: “We are absolutely delighted to see the project completed and the playground open for local children to enjoy.”

New inclusive roundabout in the Mardyke Open Space playground — *New inclusive play equipment at Mardyke Open Space. Photograph supplied by Carol Baker.*

How residents helped shape the play area

Havering Council had also worked with Havering SEND Family Voice on the design to make the equipment more inclusive.

At that stage, the works were expected to begin on 19 October, with reopening anticipated in early November subject to weather and safety checks. The latest HRA statement says the playground is now open.

The spokesperson added: “We are proud to have secured this investment and hope generations of local children enjoy this playground for years to come.”