Context

Play towers, sand and water play equipment from Timberplay have been used to create Pound's Park, part of a wider ‘Heart of the city’ movement to transform Sheffield’s city centre into a more sociable area to live with more attractive outdoor spaces.

The newest phase includes this green park that closely aligns with the city’s environmental ambitions. The site was previously utilised by the South Yorkshire Fire Service and gets its name from the first chief fire officer - John Charles Pound.  

The play area was created with the consultation of residents within the city, allowing them to have their input on the theme the playground should entail.

Project detail

A wide range of equipment was selected to suit children of all ages and abilities, including immersive water play features.

Pyramid towers

The main attraction and focal point within the playground consists of two pyramid towers connected by a net tunnel bridge, allowing for ease of access. The smaller tower is equipped with a climbing wall as well as a climbing net for children to access the structure. Both structures have slides, with the taller pyramid's being a lot larger.

Surrounding equipment includes a climbing structure to test children’s physical capabilities, as well as a seesaw and collision disc which allows for collaborative play.

Sand play

Sand play is a key feature on the opposite end of the playground with tippers and turning cranes prompting children to immerse themselves in play. A sand play platform for wheelchair users is equipped with construction elements that mimic work processes from the adult world.

Water play

The water play flows naturally from the top of the play area all the way to the bottom, passing all of the other play equipment. The water flow begins with a playground pump allowing children to use a lever to generate water. The water then flows downstream under the connected pyramids with a number of interactive play features for the children to enjoy that allow them to alter the flow of the stream. The water eventually flows to a bowl-shaped area equipped with a ball valve which, when pulled, will act as a plug, swallowing up all the water.