Play space opens for kids in North Central Regina

North Central is welcoming its newest play space for kids.

Souls Harbour Rescue Mission cut the ribbon and held its grand opening for the new outdoor, fenced-in area at the Dean Smith Youth Centre along Dewdney Avenue. Children in the neighbourhood, along with kids from Little Souls Daycare, can use the space, which features things like a sandbox, flower beds and an area for art.

“I think it was a great need. What we have right now is the public park and there isn’t a good space there for the children to just kind of explore,” said Patty Humphreys with Souls Harbour. “The model that it’s based on is the play and exploration where children can really get in touch with nature and have a more organic experience in an urban setting.”

The space is intended to further children’s physical, intellectual, social and spiritual skills through landscaping and design.

The Co-operators sponsored the play area.

Humphreys said the play and explore model of the playground will also be used as part of a daycare in a new multi-functional facility currently in the works. It’ll include 60 spots, along with a soup kitchen and about 25 affordable rental suites.

She said the complex will be built on Angus Street right next to Harbour House and should be ready in about two years.