Article published on 5 August 2025
Goring-on-Thames welcomes an exciting addition, with the official opening of an imaginatively designed and inclusive play area at Bourdillon Field. Delivered through a close collaboration between Goring Parish Council and play specialists Proludic, the new play space offers children of all abilities a safe, welcoming and inspiring place to play together.
The project follows a community consultation carried out in 2019. The consultation highlighted desire from local families for a more inclusive playground that reflected children’s needs and the village character. The result is a vibrant, multi-sensory play environment for children aged two to twelve, blending accessible design, imaginative play and references to Goring-on-Thames’ riverside heritage.
We’re thrilled to have partnered on the creation of a brand-new inclusive play area at Bourdillon Field Play Area, Goring-on-Thames – bringing fun, freedom and accessibility to children of all abilities,
– Client project team
A Playground Inspired by Place and Storytelling
At the playground’s centre is the “Bourdillon Belle” – a bespoke boat-themed structure inspired by Goring’s location beside the River Thames. Designed especially for the site and complete with a named sign, the boat includes a triple slide alongside an accessible dual slide, encouraging children to play together and share adventures side by side.
Another striking feature is the four-metre-high treehouse, which incorporates a specially commissioned panel celebrating the local area. Created using Proludic’s Grafic Games technique, the artwork brings together drawings and stories submitted by pupils from the local school. Their contributions combine in a mosaic-style design, ensuring the playground is not only for the community, but created with it – leaving a lasting legacy of local creativity.
Designed for Inclusive Play
Inclusivity has been carefully considered throughout the design. The playground features a diverse range of equipment suitable for children with varying needs and abilities, facilitating shared play experiences. A wheelchair-accessible roundabout allows children to enjoy movement together, while an interactive musical rain wheel supports sensory exploration.
Communication boards support non-verbal children and those who benefit from visual prompts, helping to encourage expressive play and social interaction. Additionally, inclusive swing options enable more children to experience the joy of swinging in a safe and supportive manner.
Brightly coloured wetpour surfacing helps children move confidently and independently around the site, while a resin-bound sensory trail provides a tactile route through the playground. Playful archways, balance elements and hidden animal geocaches add layers of discovery, encouraging exploration, problem-solving and imaginative play.
Group and social play is supported through features such as a cableway, role-play elements including a playhouse and shop front, and a wooden horse and cart that inspires storytelling and cooperative play.
A Community Space for the Future
With more than 220 play values incorporated into the design, the playground accommodates up to 170 users at a time, offering a dynamic and engaging space for families across Goring-on-Thames and the surrounding area. From bespoke artwork to carefully selected equipment, every detail reflects a commitment to quality, durability and community-led design.
Seeing so many children queuing to enter, with smiling parents and grandparents looking on, was truly one of the most joyous occasions I have had the pleasure of attending in my capacity of Goring’s district and county councillor.
– Maggie Filipova-Rivers, District councillor
The new playground at Bourdillon Field is a strong example of how inclusive thinking, imaginative design and community involvement can come together to create a truly special inclusive play area. Children explore hidden details, climb the treehouse, steer the Bourdillon Belle or share play experiences with friends. The playground is set to become a much-loved part of village life for many years to come.
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