Paul Semple Park gets a new playground but accessibility questions remain unanswered

The Town of Newmarket recently completed upgrades to Paul Semple Park located at 145 Savage Road next to the Armitage Village Public School.

According to the municipality's web site, the construction work included:

• New playground structure (closest to the school) along with a swing set will be installed.

• Playground surfacing around playground structures and swing sets using engineered wood fibres for accessibility needs.

• Removal of retaining wall(s) located around the playground equipment.

• Installation of new park furniture around the playground and swing set area.

• New trees will be planted in various areas around the park. ​

Noting that the sand at this play area was replaced by engineered wood fibres to address accessibility needs, the Bulletin asked the municipality if the new play equipment was suitable for youngsters requiring wheelchair access or with other disabilities.

As of the time of printing, we have not received a response from the municipality's Parks & Property Maintenance Department to our July 21st email inquiry.

The Town of Newmarket has an Accessibility Advisory Committee. It is not known whether the Accessibility Advisory Committee is mandated to review the purchase and set up of playground equipment. According to the Town of Newmarket Clerks Department, the Accessibility Advisory Committee did not review the purchase of playground equipment at Paul Semple Park.