Work is now underway on an exciting new outdoor gym facility at White Eagle Play Area, thanks to strong community support and comprehensive local consultation.

Local contractor Harlequin Playgrounds began installation this week on the facility, which will sit alongside the existing children’s play park and multi-use games area (MUGA), creating a complete community hub for all ages and abilities.

What to Expect

The outdoor gym will feature professional-grade equipment suitable for all fitness levels, including:

  • Cross trainers and steppers for cardio workouts
  • Strength training stations with adjustable resistance (shoulder press and bicep curl machines)
  • Calisthenics rig with pull-up bars and dip stations for bodyweight training
  • Accessible hand and pedal bike for users with varying mobility needs

The facility will have a distinctive black surface with green flecks for all-weather grip and safety, with secure fencing to keep the area clean and safe.

Community Choice

The project reached approval in June 2025 following extensive consultation with residents through letter drops, public sessions, and the Council’s Participatory Budget Community Choices Programme, where the outdoor gym was voted the top priority.

Councillor Richard Hailstone, Chair of the Parks & Open Spaces Committee, said: “After many months of planning and consultation, it’s genuinely exciting to see the contractors on site and this vision becoming a reality. This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking investment that makes communities stronger and healthier. The Parish Council’s commitment to proper consultation has ensured that every element of this facility will deliver maximum benefit for local people.”

Local Partnership

Harlequin Playgrounds, also based in Haydon Wick, will complete the project over the coming weeks, with an expected finish date in late October 2025.

Nikola Andrews, Director at Harlequin Playgrounds, said: “The Harlequin team are excited to get started on this fantastic project for Haydon Wick Parish Council, and to be appointed to create this excellent outdoor facility for our local community. We are lucky to have a facility like this so close to us, and we are delighted to be the ones delivering this project for the council.”

Liam Andrews, Managing Director at Harlequin Playgrounds, added: “Whilst we complete similar projects all over the country, forming a partnership between our local business and our local parish council is really special. It’s a great opportunity to not only create a fantastic outdoor space but also provides a boost to the local economy by using local labour and suppliers.”

The gym’s strategic location on a popular walking route, overlooking the play area and MUGA, makes it perfect for families and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Launch Event – New Year, New Challenge

Join us for a launch party on the weekend of 10th/11th January 2026 (exact date and time to be confirmed). Start the new year with your own fitness challenge and discover this fantastic free resource on your doorstep. Whether you’re beginning a new exercise routine, maintaining your fitness goals, or simply curious about the equipment, our launch event is the perfect opportunity to try everything out and meet fellow residents.

Check out Haydon Wick Parish Council website and social media channels for confirmation of the exact date and time. Click HERE.

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