City’s smart parks top global leaderboard

Sunderland is making global strides in outdoor tech-led play.

The city’s smart playparks at Thompson Park and Seaburn have been ranked among the most-used interactive installations in the world, with engagement levels far above global averages.

The parks feature cutting-edge equipment from Yalp, including the Sutu Football Wall and Sona Arch. 

These digital play structures blend movement, music, lights and sound to create inclusive, energetic games that encourage families to get active and spend time outdoors.

The success forms part of Sunderland City Council’s broader smart city vision, which uses technology to reimagine public spaces and improve quality of life. 

Other flagship projects include the Expo Pavilion in Keel Square – an immersive digital screen space used for events and storytelling – and the city’s pioneering connected infrastructure at the Stadium of Light.

Each project is underpinned by live data and performance tracking, helping the council make informed decisions on future investment, maintenance and expansion.

Liz St Louis, director of smart cities and enabling services at Sunderland City Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see Sunderland leading the way globally when it comes to interactive, digitally enhanced play. 

“Data shows our football wall and arch aren’t just being used more than average – they’re being used consistently and enthusiastically by the community. 

“This kind of insight proves the value of smart infrastructure and helps us better design public services that respond to the needs and behaviours of our residents.”

Free public Wi-Fi and enhanced digital connectivity add further value to Sunderland’s smart spaces, ensuring they serve both recreational and practical needs.

With plans to roll out more smart-enabled play areas across the city, Sunderland is positioning itself as a leader in inclusive, tech-powered community experiences.

Councillor Alison Smith, cabinet member for corporate services and equalities at Sunderland City Council, added: “We’re committed to ensuring that residents of and visitors to our city can benefit from smart technology – not just through infrastructure or connectivity, but through experiences that build confidence, skills and wellbeing. 

 “The success of our interactive football wall and Sona Arch shows how the right investment in smart public spaces can unlock enjoyment and healthy habits, while connecting communities and supporting our digital ambitions.

“With the summer holidays here, I’d encourage everyone to head to the playparks, get active and help keep Sunderland at the top of the global leaderboard!”

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