Chinatown playground set for sparkling upgrade

Liverpool’s Chinatown is set to receive a vibrant new playground as work begins on revitalizing the play area in Great George Square. This project, led by Liverpool City Council in partnership with Wicksteed, involves the installation of a fresh play space thoughtfully designed alongside local families. The playground’s theme draws inspiration from the zodiac and offers a range of equipment tailored for children aged 4 to 12 years.

The upgraded play area will include inclusive features such as sensory play panels, swings, and a wheelchair-accessible roundabout to ensure accessibility for all children. Additionally, signage in both Chinese and British Sign Language will be incorporated throughout the site, promoting a welcoming and culturally rich environment. The design embraces the principles of Anji Play, a concept rooted in child-led activities that let children decide the challenge and risk they wish to take while playing.

This transformation is expected to take about a month to complete and is part of a broader council investment initiative focused on enhancing Great George Street. Among the additional improvements planned is the creation of a ceremonial memorial garden that celebrates the heritage of Liverpool’s Chinese community. Later in the year, traditional guardian lions, kindly donated by the Chinese Consulate General in Manchester, will also be installed to commemorate the sister-city relationship between Liverpool and Shanghai. Moreover, a new mural by Global Street Art will contribute to the overall Chinatown public realm enhancement efforts.

Beyond Chinatown, further upgrades to playgrounds in Everton Park are planned to take place shortly. To date, seven play areas across the city have undergone major renovations, with the council committing to replace all aging play equipment as part of its budget allocation. Councillor Laura Robertson-Collins, Cabinet Member for Communities, Neighbourhoods and Streetscene, emphasized the importance of well-maintained and diverse play spaces, noting, “This new play area on Great George Square has been designed with the local community, for the local community.” Councillor Nick Small highlighted the significance of such developments in honoring the area’s identity, while Liverpool South ward councillor Angela Coleman expressed enthusiasm about the improvements, remarking on Chinatown’s status as a cherished local attraction enhanced by the new facilities

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