The city’s newest play centre nestles discreetly into a wooded enclave on Neighbour Road in Southills.
The grand opening of the playground was held on Oct. 26, and local families showed up to celebrate the completion of the new space.
Mayor Bob Simpson invited two children from the excited crowd to help him cut the ribbon, and the remaining children swarmed the equipment soon after.
Simpson said he and city council are thrilled to see the development come to fruition.
City of Quesnel director of public works operations Matt Thomas said there had been talk of putting in a playground in South Quesnel for some time.
“We had lots of public consultation. It was easy to ask the parents and adults what they like, but it was funny how far off we were when we talked to the kids.
“The kids wanted a natural look, with this new-type playground with lots of climbing free-play space, which has had success other places.”
Thomas said the equipment is built from robina wood, which is a European hardwood sourced from Germany.
“It has a 25 to 30-year lifespan.”
Simpson added the wood doesn’t absorb water, and it doesn’t get slippery.
The natural-wood appearance means the playground equipment blends seamlessly with its surroundings.
Taking a short break from play, 10-year-old Madison Johnstone said: “This big swing is my favourite.
“We like the playground. It’s a good meeting spot for us.”
Eleven-year-old Roman Silva also liked the swing the best, but said he also enjoys playing on the rock structures.
“I can do front flips off the rocks,” he boasted.
Along with swings and climbing rocks, the playground contains a high rope climbing structure, a wooden house with a slide for smaller children and insect spring riders.
If the grand opening is any indication, the new playground is set to see plenty of use.
