Pirate play area all set to sail for new adventures following major upgrades
Families are being invited to climb aboard and explore a refreshed local favourite, as the Treasure Island play area in Canford Cliffs prepares to reopen following major improvements.
Known locally as the “Pirate Park”, the site will welcome families back next week, with its iconic ship now upgraded for a new generation — alongside a host of new and improved play equipment.
Opening ceremony on 20 June
To mark the completion of the refurbishment, a special opening ceremony will take place on 20 June, running from 11am to 2pm.
The event will be hosted by the Canford Cliffs Land Society, with face painting, games and entertainment planned in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
What’s new at Treasure Island?
At the heart of the redesign is a brand-new pirate ship, taking pride of place as the centrepiece of the play area.
Families can also expect:
- Upgraded climbing equipment
- Slides
- Sensory play features
- A mini zip-wire
The play area has also been designed with themed zones to encourage imaginative play — with features including rocking springers and new rope swings for young adventurers.
Investment and funding
More than £130,000 has been invested in the refurbishment. The project was jointly funded by the Canford Cliffs Land Society and a successful Neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy (NCIL) application supported by ward councillors.
The improvements have been delivered as part of BCP Council’s wider Plan for Play strategy.
Council and community working together
Cllr Sandra Moore, BCP Council’s portfolio holder for Play Strategy, said the transformation will ensure the community has access to a high-quality, inclusive play space for years to come, and praised the project as an example of what can be achieved when the council works alongside community groups, residents and councillors.
Ward councillor for Canford Cliffs, Cllr John Challinor, said that while the playground wasn’t part of the council’s initial tranche of projects, the combination of community support and local funding helped make the new space possible.
Inclusivity and wellbeing at the heart of the redesign
The redesign has focused on making the play area more inclusive and accessible, with new features including:
- Balance beams
- A play tower
- A communication panel
- Combination seat swings
- Resurfaced paths
- Enhancements to well-loved existing equipment, including the cone spinner
New fitness play equipment has also been installed to support physical and mental wellbeing and encourage more people to enjoy the outdoor space.
More upgrades planned across BCP
Cllr Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for parks at BCP Council, said the reopening of Treasure Island is part of a wider year of play improvements across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
He added that major upgrades are planned in the coming months at key locations including Kings Park, Mallard Road, Hamworthy Park and Noyce Gardens, alongside repairs and improvements already being delivered at dozens of sites across the three towns.
