Work will begin in August on a new play area and free-play Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) on site of the old play area located on Mason Road in Magheramason.
The £635,000 project is funded by Derry City and Strabane District Council and will be delivered by contractors Haffey Sports Grounds, with structural engineering consultancy firm Taylor & Boyd appointed to progress the scheme.
The equipment in the state-of-the-art play area - which will be suitable for children of all ages and abilities - will include a wheelchair accessible ground flush roundabout, an eight-metre high space net, a zip line, two multi-units with towers for younger and older children, climbing nets and slides, and a variety of swings with adapted swing seats catering for different ages and abilities.
Both the play area and MUGA will be located in a landscaped grass area with tree planting, seating areas, cycle stands and fully inclusive picnic tables and paths, which ties in with Council's Green Infrastructure Plan which focuses on utilising natural spaces to provide environmental, economic and social benefits.
Councillor Brian Tierney, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, said it was a major project for the Magheramason area.
"It is fantastic news that work will soon get underway on this top-class facility that will cater for children of all ages and all abilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy socialising with one another while also getting in plenty of physical exercise.
"It's also great to see our green spaces being used in a positive way that will be beneficial for the environment, as well as socially and economically.
"I'd like to thank the team at Council for their work in getting this project started – in line with our play provision strategy - and I know that, once completed, it will be a hub of activity for the Magheramason community."
Susan McElwee, community representative for Magheramason, welcomed news that work will commence in August.
"Everyone in the area is delighted that work is soon to begin on what will be a huge asset to all who live in Magheramason.
"The plans for the MUGA and play area look fantastic, and it's really exciting for all of the children and young people here to know that they will soon have a state-of-the-art facility in which they can meet up with their friends and enjoy playing together.
"It's very welcome news not just for the kids, but for parents also, and we all can't wait to see the finished project."