Responding to Havant Borough Council’s call in the tender document for natural aesthetics and robust materials capable of withstanding potential antisocial behaviour, Proludic’s project at Bidbury Mead aimed to revitalise the existing playground with a choice mix of materials, ensuring longevity and inclusivity in this green and secluded setting.
Bidbury Mead, a hub for diverse activities such as cricket, walking and football, demanded a playground that could accommodate a high volume of weekend users, engaging children of all ages and abilities in various playful activities. The old play area, marred by maintenance issues and deteriorating structures required a low-maintenance design to supersede it utilising safe, sustainable play solutions.
Complicating matters, the playground was situated above a running spring, prompting a need for solutions to protect the surfacing and equipment from drainage issues and accelerated degradation. Proludic elevated the play equipment to address these challenges by laying a mulch surface on MOT stone above the existing ground level. This not only prevented the surfacing and equipment from being submerged in water during wetter months but also facilitated access for younger children and visitors with special needs on a dry and stable surface year-round.
For older children, Proludic strategically placed more challenging equipment on grass matting, ensuring a dynamic and age-appropriate play environment. The approach included the use of an inclusive selection from our Kanope range, featuring naturalistic painted galvanised steel. The addition of a Robinia well-inspired roundabout paid homage to the natural spring beneath the park. Junior climbing equipment, crafted from durable Robinia hardwood and raised on steel shoes, ensured resilience against decay. The J3949 multiplay unit, designed to encourage lateral movement, featured slides of varying heights, fostering cooperative play among users of different ages. Acknowledging the diverse user base, we incorporated items popular with teen girls, such as horizontal bars and the crowd-pleasing Rodeoboard (J3501) spinning rocker.
The installation process faced challenges due to wet ground conditions during this project phase. However, efficient planning, including the use of trackways for deliveries, and meticulous post-completion reinstatement ensured the site was left in impeccable condition.
The now completed project at Bidbury Mead stands as a testament to the successful integration of mixed materials, thoughtful design, and innovative solutions, creating a revitalised and inclusive playground that meets the diverse needs of the community while respecting the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.
Tim Bird, Area Manager
Photo Gallery
If you have a play project that you would like to discuss then please get in touch with us on 0115 982 3980 or email us at info@proludic.co.uk.
