Challenge

Massey & Harris designed, manufactured and installed new play equipment at South Street, Rochdale.

The brief was to design a boat-themed play area with various stimulating and interesting play elements.

Solution

Massey & Harris designed a true centrepiece play unit that will be able to stand the high seas and provide lots of play opportunities.

The scheme also required engaging surfacing, with graphics and supporting pieces of play equipment that tied in with the nautical theme.

The company wanted the play unit to be packed full of play, be robust enough to ensure little to no maintenance, and for it to also sit comfortably in its environment.

The main ship play unit was split into three with a front and rear section and a crow's nest that allows children to look out to sea to maybe spot pirates on the horizon. There are various portholes and look-outs and a crawl tunnel which goes through the play unit. A talk tube goes from the captain's wheel all the way to the front of the ship

Massey & Harris also manufactured supporting pieces of play equipment such as a whale springer, a fully-working periscope and a wave-shaped seesaw.

All of this was complemented by nautical-themed wet pour to represent the ocean, the beach and items such as anchors, starfish and other sea life.

Result

The design of this play area has been greatly received by residents, the council and most importantly, the children.

The wide range of equipment has meant that children are able to explore and enjoy the area, and the nautical theme really sets the whole play area off. The equipment offers lots of challenging and exciting play options for children too.