CYP Now - Eureka! Nursery, Halifax

What are they doing? Construction is under way on a natural play area for children at the Eureka! Nursery. Work on the new play area, which will be an organic space for children to explore, began in September and is expected to be completed by the beginning of November. The design will create a stimulating and interactive environment for nursery children and is inspired by the natural landscape.

Why have they made it? Sandra Thompson, head of the nursery, says: "The space we currently have isn't challenging enough and limits the opportunities for children to engage fully with the natural environment. Outdoor play is essential to the healthy development of children. A £29,000 grant from Calderdale Council will help create an innovative play area where we can encourage the children's desire to explore and provide opportunities for risk taking."

Anything else? The play area will move from the centre of the Eureka! Park to the side of the old Halifax Station building, providing a sheltered area for children to play. The fenced playground will have mounds of earth to climb, a tunnel to explore, a water feature, a mini nature trail and a timber chair for children to enjoy outdoor story time.