Derby School Playground Closed, Equipment To Be Replaced Due To Safety Issues: City

DERBY, CT — A school playground in Derby is closed and its equipment is set to be replaced after a recent inspection found it "did not meet current safety standards," according to city, district and Board of Education officials.

In a news release provided this week by Derby Public Schools, Superintendent Matthew Conway Jr. said a routine inspection of the playground at Bradley School revealed it "did not meet current safety standards."

As a result, the playground is closed effective immediately and the existing equipment will be removed by the city's Department of Public Works to ensure the safety of all students and community members, according to Conway.

"While this news is disappointing," Conway said in a news release, "city and school officials are already taking steps toward a positive path forward and are aligned in their commitment to develop a plan for replacing the playground equipment."

According to Conway, a committee will be formed to support this effort consisting of Board of Education members, school staff, city representatives, parents and other community stakeholders.

The committee will oversee the planning and installation process with a shared goal of designing a new playground that reflects the needs of Derby’s students and families while providing a safe, modern and engaging space for years to come, Conway said.

Additional information, including opportunities for community involvement, will be shared in the coming weeks, according to Conway.

"The city of Derby and the Derby Board of Education thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work together on this important project," Conway said.