Youngsters and families have flocked to enjoy the Weyroc Park since the gates opened on Monday.
And an opening ceremony was held on Wednesday afternoon to officially cut the ribbon.
Ronnie Ogilvie, chairman of Annan Playpark Steering Group (APPS), which has driven the development, said: “It truly has been teamwork. A small, dedicated group on the committee have worked for some five years to achieve this and I’m so proud of everyone, the unsung heroes those who have dealt with the day-to-day practical things.”
He singled out Annan mum Louise Ross “for her total dedication to the cause and her unflinching motivation to get this park up and running” and thanked all the funders for their support, as well as council officials.
And he revealed they are currently looking at phase two, with proposals for a skate park and more interactive equipment in 2022, adding: “We hope the wider community will get involved and help us achieve our plans to further develop the park area.
“It has been five years in the planning, but we are there now so please come along with your family and enjoy and respect this super area.”
The inclusive play park features an interactive SUTO wall, the first in the region, as well as a range of equipment for all ages and abilities.
Furthermore, a Changing Places Toilet has also been installed within Newington Leisure Centre.
The idea for a new park started in 2016 when some local parents contacted councillors about the lack of play facilities in Annan. That led to the formation of APPS, which secured £125,000 of funding from Dumfries and Galloway Council and £107,500 from The Holywood Trust, Robinson Trust, Awards for All and Tesco’s Bags for Life Fund, and held their own fundraisers too.
Annandale South Councillor Sean Marshall is delighted at what’s been achieved and said: “After countless meetings and public consultation, and after having raised nearly half a million pounds, our dreams have become a reality with the opening of phase one of this fantastic play park facility for Annan and the surrounding communities.”
