Challenge

Manchester City Council wanted to create a city centre play area for a compact site but had never received a suitable design. The site had significant services running under it which posed a number of installation issues. In addition, there was the expectation of extremely high pedestrian footfall in the area.

Solution

‘Dilly the Snail’ was designed specifically for the project in stainless steel with upgraded bearings to deal with the extremely high use that the area was expected to get.

Artificial grass was chosen as the surfacing solution based on the high anticipated footfall.

Dilly was the result of looking at architectural shapes and ways of creating interesting lines that were visually quite simple, whilst creating a piece with play value that was relevant to the garden. Dilly was compact enough for the site but large enough to have the desired visual impact.

Dilly is perfect for younger visitors and, at 1.6m, it is large and exciting enough for older children too.

A set of simple Snail Eye grab bars complete the visage while adding an extra element of play.