A community came together to celebrate the official opening of a new adventure playground at Cliffe House in Shepley.

The new £250,000 playground was unveiled as part of the Friends of Cliffe House Summer Garden Party.

The playground is ideal for the outdoor learning experience for school residential groups but also provides a free, high‑quality play space for children visiting Cliffe House.

The play equipment has been created so children of all abilities, including those with disabilities, can enjoy the space together.

Year 3 pupils from Shepley First and Nursery School shaped the playground design by each designing a native animal that has been digitally reproduced on colourful banners now displayed around the site.

Visual walk‑throughs helped pupils understand how the playground would look, and similar creative activities will continue for school groups visiting Cliffe House on residential trips, helping build a sense of ownership and pride in the space.

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Deputy Mayor of Kirklees Clr Lee Cliffe.

Clr Rob Butler, Cabinet member for education and SEND at Kirklees Council, said: “It was fantastic to see so many families enjoying the new adventure playground at the launch event.

“This space has been designed to inspire creativity, confidence and active play. It’s wonderful to see children making the most of it.

“The project has been a real community effort, and I’d like to thank everyone who helped bring it to life, from council officers and local children to ward councillors, including Clr John Taylor.”

The adventure playground is now open for public use and will continue to support school visits, residential programmes and community events throughout the year.