Context

Caledonia Play installed unique large timber play towers in two phases at Blair Drummond Safari Park in central Scotland to replace a 25-year-old home-made structure that was well loved by the public but had come to the end of its life.

Project detail

The project was to create a unique set of play towers that would also become a viewpoint from which to look out over the park.

With future maintenance and cost in mind, a new structure was designed to use existing elements, such as the slide and scramble net, and to provide a sense of adventure and risk.

It was aimed at a broad range of ages and abilities and constructed to accommodate up to around 250 people at the same time.

Phase 1

The concept and design was developed in co-operation with the safari park's management team. Carefully co-ordinated project management enabled different teams of contractors to work simultaneously as the site was prepared and the structure erected.

Building control consent was acquired before the build and a full health and safety check completed post-construction to ensure compliance with EN-1176 and EN-1177.

Phase 2

Different internal access points were fitted and installed, such as rock walls, slides and a 7m net tunnel positioned 7.5m off the ground. These offer children alternative ways to access different levels of the towers without necessarily using the stairs.

Domed portholes enable children to see their parents down below.

The tall towers, each 3 levels high, have steel frameworks, while the lower central tower is constructed with sawn and dressed Douglas fir. All towers were decked and clad with high-quality redwood timber.

All ages and abilities of children are accommodated with the differing sizes of towers, bridges and access points.

Result

A unique and bespoke play castle allowing a bird’s eye view of the park from the top. It is even possible to see the lions roaming around the enclosure next door – the whole project offers an experience that cannot be found anywhere else hence increasing footfall for the Safari Park.