Marina Blue Flag beach to get kids park and fitness hub

Chennai: Marina Blue Flag beach is set to offer more than just sand and surf, with Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) planning a dedicated kids' play zone and an adult fitness area.GCC has earmarked a 10,000sqft area near Anna Square for the children's park, which will feature skating rinks, wall-climbing activities, and classic playground equipment such as swings, see-saws, slides, and merry-go-rounds.The outdoor play structures, designed by Funplay, mix bright yellow and green elements with wavy and straight slides, interconnected platforms with cottage-style roofs, spiral climbing tunnels made of netting, and various ladders and rope features. Decorative panels, flower-shaped elements, a soft artificial turf surface and see-saw-style rides will be part of the set-up, which is aimed at encouraging physical activity, coordination, and imaginative play, while ensuring durability and safety.Adults will also get a dedicated fitness hub with gym equipment, including hydraulics, to promote routine exercise. GCC Commissioner J Kumaragurubaran said the children's play unit will cost 64 lakh, with the adult fitness facilities built at around 1 crore.The 50-acre beach, restored earlier this year, earned the Blue Flag certification. "We need recreational spaces to divert a section of the crowd at the beach. These developments will also help curb illegal stalls," the commissioner said.GCC also plans to introduce indoor gaming facilities, including badminton courts, to further encourage people to engage in physical activity. Meanwhile, at least 100 stalls around the beach will be removed. A detailed project report has been prepared and work orders will be issued soon.Urban planner S Babjee, working with CMDA, suggested additional signage and toilets. "If GCC charges for using the play and entertainment facilities, it can generate revenue to maintain the Blue Flag beach," he said.