Written question asked by Tom Hayes (Labour) on Monday, 7 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 9 September 2026. It was answered by Florence Eshalomi (Labour) on Thursday, 17 September 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Playgrounds

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she plans to issue guidance to local authorities on removing restrictions on children's active play, including ball games.

Answer: The Government recognises the importance of safe, high-quality playgrounds for children and families. Responsibility for the provision, inspection, maintenance and management of local authority-owned playgrounds rests with individual local authorities, which are best placed to assess local needs and priorities. My department does not currently plan to issue guidance on these matters but will keep this under review in the usual course of business.

Secondary information