The Merl Park playground aims to set a new standard for inclusion, offering barrier-free play to children with and without disabilities. Among its first visitors were Maxime, who uses a wheelchair, and his friend Max. The two boys, who live together in a facility run by the association Tricentenaire, can play side by side, with or without mobility aids. Water features are a particular highlight for them, and the playground is designed so that Maxime can join in just as easily as Max.
The playground's design is not limited to specialist equipment for children with disabilities; instead, all areas and features are accessible to everyone. This approach, emphasised by Nicole Spindler from Tricentenaire, means that children can play together naturally, without separation. Even the picnic areas are shared, allowing families to sit together and ensuring that siblings without disabilities can enjoy the space just as much as those with additional needs. Spindler points out that, although Tricentenaire was not directly involved in the planning, the result is an environment where genuine inclusion is achieved, where children share the same space without any barriers.
Feedback from other organisations has also been very positive. Christine Zimmer, director of Info Handicap, explained that her organisation reviewed the playground and awarded it the EureWelcome label for accessibility. Info Handicap also suggested further improvements, such as providing a map at the entrance highlighting inclusive features, and a board with pictograms so that non-verbal children can communicate by pointing.
Luxembourg City authorities remain open to suggestions for further improvement. According to Maurice Bauer, councillor for the Christian Social People’s Party (CSV) in Luxembourg City, the revamped Merl Park, especially its inclusive design and popular water attractions, has become a major draw for families. Bauer noted that the city has received very little negative feedback and that any adjustments that may be needed, such as reducing noise from certain installations, will be considered.
During the school holidays, the playground is particularly busy, often hosting groups of children. Tricentenaire has already planned additional activities for children at the park in the coming weeks, according to Nicole Spindler and Laura Veneziani, the association’s director, who accompanied Max and Maxime on their visit. The accessibility of toilets, as well as the presence of adapted parking spaces around the park, are also important for families, they emphasised.
There is another playground in Parc Belval that has also been awarded the EureWelcome label for accessibility.
