It’s open! A brand-new adventure playground and outdoor gym created at Lee-on-the-Solent waterfront by Gosport Borough Council has officially opened.

The new Marine Parade Playpark has been specially designed for older children, featuring a ninja trail packed with inclusive equipment for juniors and teens of all abilities.

Next to it is a new fitness zone for older children and adults to enjoy outdoor exercise and socialise.

The council has worked with playground equipment specialists Proludic Ltd to transform what was the old Lee skatepark, which was closed for health and safety reasons, using Section 106 developer contribution funding. Leader Cllr Peter Chegwyn and Cllr Julie Westerby, Chairman of the Community and Environment Board, cut the ribbon to officially open the park.

Cllr Chegwyn said: “I am delighted to open Gosport’s latest new play and fitness facility, which we have created especially for older children who often get overlooked and lack things to do, as well as somewhere for adults to keep fit and socialise.

“Outdoor activity is so important for people’s health and wellbeing. That’s why the council has created over £1m of new sport and leisure facilities across Gosport over the last 12 months, with more to come for our residents to enjoy different activities and sports.”

Playpark facilities

The Ninja Trail has giant arched monkey bars, a warrior ramp, climbing slopes and suspended steps. Its multiple routes to cater for all abilities, including wheelchair users. Hammock seats with vibrant floor graphics offer a welcoming space to socialise and enjoy the stunning coastal views.

The Fitness Zone has pull-up bars, dip bars, and a sit-up bench, suiting a wide range of abilities and fitness levels. Inclusive features include wheelchair-accessible monkey bars and a transfer-friendly workout bench. Bright ground markings offer extra space to exercise, and QR codes can be scanned on phones for help to work out and use the equipment.

Rob Baker, Proludic Ltd’s Managing Director, said: “Proludic is proud to have helped create this exciting new playground, which has the South Coast’s largest and most challenging ninja trail. Together with the outdoor gym, all of the facilities have been carefully designed for people of all abilities to enjoy.

“With stunning views across the Solent, it’s the ideal location to stay fit and enjoy the great outdoors.”