Challenge

Following a competitive tender process, Sutcliffe Play was awarded the contract to design and install a new playground at Pawson Play Area on Brightlingsea's Western Promenade. The area had been damaged by saltwater following an unusual tidal surge at the beginning of 2020 which flooded the site.

Funding was secured through insurance, the Town Council and District Council development funding.

Rather than restore the existing play area, which had already become tired and worn, the Town Council sought to update it and create an accessible, innovative play area that had impact and the ‘wow’ factor.

Solution

Following site visits, and aware of the harsh environmental conditions that the new play area would endure, Sutcliffe Play created a design to meet these specific requirements, while fulfilling the desire for a bright and engaging space, which was found to be a clear favourite at the public consultation. Taking inspiration from the coastal setting, several pieces of pirate- and fort-themed playground equipment were included to create an imaginative play area set against the backdrop of the Brightlingsea promenade and the sea beyond.

Every piece of equipment installed is made of flood-resistant materials, including the addition of galvanised lower parts. The unit has also been installed raised slightly higher than the main play space to help with erosion of the site. The robust and durable materials also reduce future maintenance costs.

Covering an area of over 94m2, the design centres around a large Ghost Ship multiplay unit as the focal point of the playground, creating imaginative play for older juniors aged 6-14. With a number of ‘sailing’ activities across multiple platforms, this unit encourages co-operation and social interaction on a large scale, accommodating up to 59 users at once.

The Ghost Ship is complemented by a second themed multiplay unit, for younger children aged 2-6. Fort Knight comprises a secret tunnel, arrow-slit windows and dungeon bars as part of a castle them. It incorporates 23 activities to encourage the development of physical, locomotor, social and role play skills.

With no less than 30 wet pour floor graphics, the playground is packed with vibrant themed shapes including a 3D shark, stepping stones and angel fish, to spark children’s imaginations and encourage role play whilst being active and having fun.

A line up of three springies – including Wilbur Whale and Denzel Dragon – complete the overall theme of the playground, engaging children in social, imaginative, inclusive and physical play.

Equipment used

  • The Ghost Ship multiplay unit

  • Fort Knight multiplay unit

  • Whirly Bob playground roundabout

  • Wilbur Whale springie

  • Denzel Dragon springie

  • Spring seesaw

  • Wet pour surfacing