A NEW jungle-themed adventure playground has opened in Poole Park – complete with rope bridges, zip wires and monkey bars.

It features a range of equipment for all jungle adventurers, young and old, and Poole Park’s gardening volunteers planted hundreds of exotic shrubs to help create the jungle atmosphere prior to the opening.

Councillor Mark Anderson, cabinet member for environment, said: “I have been coming to Poole Park for many years bringing my children, who are now grown up, to play across the park and I know this play area really needed improving.

“We want to maximise access to our high-quality parks and open spaces and these improvements will certainly get more people outside and making adventures of their own in the park.

“The investment from The National Lottery Heritage Fund has made such a difference to Poole Park and these facilities will stand the test of time to provide something exciting for many years to come.”

The scheme is funded through the Parks for People restoration programme, run by The National Lottery Heritage Fund and The National Lottery Community Fund, as well as a grant by Canford Environmental.

Natural play features are being installed in Poole Park this week, between the two play areas.

These continue the theme with carvings of binoculars, a rucksack and a treasure map to inspire young explorers to discover the park.

Mayor of Poole, Cllr Julie Bagwell, said: “I was delighted to officially open this exciting new play area.

“It was much in need of improvements and the team have done a great job.

"It was brilliant to see so many people, both young and old, using the new equipment for the first time.

“I can’t wait to bring my grandchildren here over the next few weeks to enjoy all the new play equipment.”

The Poole Park Life project has been using the Parks for People restoration programme grant since 2017 to improve Poole Park – work which is nearing completion.

Refurbishment work on the park’s water fountain is due to begin soon, along with the installation of new signage and "heritage interpretation" materials, as well as new adult fitness equipment.

The council says a series of celebratory events and activities will conclude the project later in the summer.