Blankenberge and Helmond initiate playground and recreational space upgrades

Municipalities in Blankenberge, Belgium, and Helmond, Netherlands, are implementing projects to upgrade local playgrounds and recreational spaces.

In Blankenberge, the city is redesigning ‘De Speeldoze’ on Groenestraat. The project aims to create a more child-friendly environment with increased greenery and improved outdoor spaces. The facility serves multiple functions, including hosting the ‘Huis van het Kind’ and providing lessons through LIGO. Alderman for Youth Dennis Monte stated the goal is to provide a safe and pleasant environment for children to play, learn, and meet.

In Helmond, the municipality has launched a multi-year plan to renovate 26 playgrounds over the next six months to address aging equipment. The city has allocated nearly 700,000 euros for this year's works, following an investment of over 650,000 euros last year. The long-term plan aims to redesign 97 locations by 2029, focusing on neighborhood needs and replacing equipment that has reached the end of its average 15-year lifespan.