How Minsk Is Transforming Playgrounds in 2025: Modern, Safe, and Fun for Kids

Minsk is actively transforming, and the city’s improvement efforts extend far beyond its main streets. Public utilities are repairing walkways, staircases, and asphalt, with special attention paid to children’s playgrounds. In 2025, the modernization of these facilities has become one of the priority tasks of the Minsk City Housing and Communal Services (MZHKH). At the center of attention are modern play complexes that make playgrounds not only safer but also more engaging for children. Here’s how the capital’s playgrounds are being renewed.

Large‑Scale Plans for 2025

In the first quarter of 2025, 136 new pieces of children’s and sports equipment have already been installed in Minsk courtyards, and another 733 items have been repaired and painted. By the end of the year, 2,453 obsolete structures that are beyond repair are slated for replacement. The upgrades will affect 1,155 playgrounds across the city, with the greatest focus on the Frunzensky District. The key goal is not just to replace old equipment but to make the playgrounds more functional and appealing to children. That is why this year the emphasis is on installing play complexes.

Why Are Play Complexes a Priority?

Play complexes are multifunctional structures that combine several elements at once: slides, swings, climbing frames, and even themed “houses.” In 2025, Minsk plans to install more than 500 such complexes. They not only save space in courtyards but are also much more engaging for young children than stand‑alone pieces. Anastasia Vorobyova, Deputy General Director of MZHKH for Urban Improvement, notes: “Multifunctional ‘houses’ are more attractive to children than individual elements. We prefer this option to make children’s leisure brighter and more varied.” These complexes are often designed around interesting themes—such as communal services, emergency rescue, or sea adventures—adding uniqueness to play areas and stimulating children’s imaginations.

How Does the Renewal Process Work?

Updating children’s playgrounds is a systematic effort. Housing and communal services specialists regularly inspect the condition of the equipment. If structures are worn out or beyond repair, they are dismantled and replaced with new ones. Special attention is paid to replacing outdated metal slides: in 2024, 169 of these items were replaced, and in 2025 another 281 are planned. The new slides feature not only modern design but also enhanced safety. All installed equipment undergoes strict compliance checks with the EAEU technical regulation “On the Safety of Equipment for Children’s Playgrounds.” Each item is accompanied by certificates, and procurements are conducted through transparent tenders.

Residents’ Participation in Improvement

Minsk residents can also influence the appearance of playgrounds. For example, at their own initiative and expense, they can install additional equipment in their courtyards. To do this, they simply need to contact the operating organization, which will assist with organizing the process. Moreover, until March 1, 2025, city dwellers can submit their ideas for new play complexes. Proposals are accepted via the MZHKH chatbot. This is a great opportunity to make courtyard playgrounds even more attuned to the wishes of children and parents.

Safety and Comfort: Sand Replacement and More

In addition to installing play complexes, Minsk ensures the cleanliness and safety of playgrounds. Every April or May, the sand in sandboxes is completely replaced. During winter, sand levels can decrease as it is used by caretakers to treat walkways, but they strive to minimize this.

Why Is This Important?

Updating children’s playgrounds in Minsk is not just maintenance but an investment in the city’s future. Modern play complexes create a safe and engaging environment for children, support their development, and make courtyards more comfortable for families. Thanks to the joint efforts of public utilities and proactive residents, the capital is becoming even more child‑friendly.