Roosendaal unveils first fully inclusive playground designed with residents and disability experts
Residents of Roosendaal now have a new inclusive playground where children of all abilities can play together. The Haverschmidtlaan playground, co-designed with neighbors and disability advisors, sets a new standard for accessible and climate-friendly play spaces in the municipality.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Haverschmidtlaan, Roosendaal, Noord-Brabant |
| Opened by | Alderman Evelien van der Star |
| Key Contributors | Rebellenteam (disability advisors), neighborhood residents, Joint Projects |
| Design Focus | Inclusive play, climate resilience (shade, cooling) |
| Youngest Rebel Advisor | 4 years old |
| Policy Alignment | Part of Roosendaal’s new Play Policy for accessible play locations |
| Opening Date | March 16, 2026 |
The municipality of Roosendaal is responsible for developing public spaces that are accessible and inclusive for all residents. This project aligns with its Play Policy, which aims to create future-proof play areas that accommodate children with and without disabilities while addressing climate challenges like heat stress.
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Read the full translated article below
Opening of inclusive playground Haverschmidtlaan
Today, alderman Evelien van der Star opened the fully inclusive playground in Roosendaal together with children from the neighborhood and members of the Rebellenteam. The playground on Haverschmidtlaan has been developed according to the new Play Policy and is therefore an important milestone in creating accessible, inviting, and future-proof play locations in our municipality.
The realization of this inclusive playground is the result of an intensive and special participation process. Residents from the neighborhood actively contributed to the design, layout, and arrangement of the location from the beginning. The Rebellenteam, a group of experienced residents with various disabilities who are trained in advising on accessibility, played an important role in testing and evaluating the designs.
Their experiences and knowledge of what people with disabilities really need were indispensable.
Joint Projects guided the participation process as an expert partner in designing inclusive play locations. They made the first 3D designs on which the final design is based.
The process was dynamic, intensive, and not always easy. But thanks to the joint efforts of residents, Rebels, professionals, and partners, there is now a beautiful inclusive play location that the entire neighborhood can be proud of.
A future-proof play area for everyone
The playground already attracts many children and adults from the neighborhood. The play location is designed so that everyone can truly participate: children with and without disabilities, young and old alike.
Additionally, climate-friendly solutions have been considered. Planting has been added that provides more shade and cooling, fitting within the ambition to reduce heat stress in the neighborhood.
Alderman for Inclusion Evelien van der Star is proud: “This playground is more than just a play location. It is an example of how we in Roosendaal are building a society where every child, with or without disabilities, has the same opportunities to play, learn, and grow. Thanks to the efforts of the neighborhood and the Rebellenteam, we have created something that truly makes a difference”.
Celebratory opening
To celebrate this special moment, neighbors, children, and involved partners gathered at the playground this afternoon. With cake, popcorn, and festive activities, the opening became a joyful and connecting moment for the neighborhood.
About the Rebellenteam
The Rebellenteam consists of residents with various disabilities. The group, ranging from young children to adults, supports the municipality in testing and advising on the accessibility of locations and events. The youngest Rebel is four years old.
In 2025 and 2026, the Rebellenteam will be involved in inclusive playground designs and various showcases in public spaces, such as the fair last summer and several municipal buildings. Their efforts help Roosendaal better meet the real needs of residents with disabilities.
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