The subsequent phase focused on enhancing the main enclosed play space. eibe Play engaged in a detailed design process with the parish council, ensuring that the new play space would be inclusive and cater to a wide range of ages. Multiple design options were presented to the council, who ultimately decided that eibe Play's proposal best met their needs and expectations.
Funding for the project was secured through contributions from a local waste management firm and the local borough council. With the financial backing in place, eibe Play was awarded the contract and could commence the manufacturing of the play equipment.
The installation of the play area was conducted and completed during the summer of 2024. One of the key considerations for eibe Play was to balance the play offerings, especially given the limited space. The targeted age range of 2-14 years helped guide the selection of play items to ensure that the area provided maximum play value and appealed to children at different stages of their development. The council's goal was to create a play area that would grow with the children, maintaining their interest and engagement throughout childhood.
An artificial surface was crucial to the scheme's success. eibe Play smartly utilised the existing surface as a subbase for the new wet pour surface, which helped to reduce removal costs and allowed the allocation of more resources towards enhancing play opportunities. Incorporating natural colours and nature-themed graphics further enriched the play area, helping it to blend harmoniously with its surroundings.
The play equipment was carefully chosen and included items made from softwood timber mounted on metal footings. This combination of materials was drawn from their ecorino and unique ranges, blending square and circular timber elements. Highlighted equipment included the Mount Meru Multi-play Unit for children aged 5-14, which offers numerous climbing structures and bridges, fostering both physical development and imaginative play. This unit also supports the development of eye-hand coordination and upper body strength.
For the younger children, the Kamet Toddler Multi-play unit was introduced. This piece is designed to offer toddlers their first experiences of climbing and sliding. It includes a tunnel for exploration, enhancing the discovery aspect of play for the youngest users.
The new play area officially opened on a typically wet summer's day. Despite the weather, the first family eagerly began enjoying the space moments after the installation fences were removed.
eibe Play aspires for this newly revamped playground to be a beloved and frequently used community feature. We hope that the thoughtful design and engaging play equipment will provide joy and developmental benefits to local children for many years. This project illustrates eibe Play's commitment to creating high-quality play spaces and also highlights the positive impact of community collaboration and local support in bringing such initiatives to fruition.
