A nationally-accredited park in Ely  has completed work on a new play and picnic area aimed at baby and toddler play.

Ely Country Park, which received a Natural England accreditation earlier this year, decided to make the addition to provide an extra place for play as well as supplying further seat and shade provision in the park following extensive consultation with the local community.

The new play and picnic area features a toddler slide, tower and some talking flowers. Additional picnic tables with seating and shade canopies have also been provided for everyone to use.

Councillor David Ambrose-Smith, Chair of Community Services Committee at East Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “We’re ecstatic to open this new aspect of Ely Country Park.

“Having a park that can be enjoyed by everyone is hugely important to the council and opening this play and picnic area, that was designed with younger children and parents in mind, ticks all the boxes.

“We are extremely proud of the prestige the park has achieved including winning and continuing to maintain its Green Flag status. The Country Park is a fantastic asset to the entire district and we are seeing people from all over East Cambridgeshire come and visit. This newest addition shows that we are not resting on our laurels and are always trying to provide outdoor spaces for residents.”

The project forms part of the Ely Country Park Improvement Plan 2017- 2020. Last year, a new multi-play ship was installed for older children.

Access to the Country Park is completely free of charge and there are also several trails that highlight the best of the natural fen landscape.

Leisure and Community Services Delivery Champion, Councillor Richard Hobbs, said: “It’s been a great year for Ely Country Park.

“Having received their accreditation from Natural England in April, it’s brilliant to see the team build on this and add this new area to the park.

“I look forward to hearing the thoughts from our residents and seeing it being put to good use.”

To find out more about the park, visit the East Cambridgeshire District Council website