Context

Nestled along the banks of the River Ness, Whin Park Play Area is full of history. Since 1923, the land has been owned by Inverness Town Council and has undergone significant change with the introduction of a boating pond and miniature railway which uses the original Ness Islands bridges built in 1829.

With reported sightings of the legendary Loch Ness Monster spanning across centuries, the site has drawn in countless visitors from across the world. But at the heart of these myths and legends, one thing has stayed the same: the community of Inverness.

Challenge

Used by both local and international visitors, the existing play space at Whin Park struggled to keep up with the demand and continuous usage. The Highland Council knew it was time to breathe new life into the area and decided to open the park to tender.

The proposed designs needed to offer unique play opportunities for all users. A destination play area where users could spend an entire day, whilst also taking advantage of the park’s other facilities. This led Jupiter to develop the concept of ‘The Hunt for Nessie’; combining all The Highland Council’s requirements whilst providing Jupiter Play’s signature wow factor and unique theming.

As part of the tender process its designs went up against those from other play companies in a public vote, giving the community the chance to decide what they wanted for themselves, and Jupiter's concept won with over 80% of the votes.

Project detail

Nessie's Pond

Accompanied by trim trails, trampolines and a miniature pirate ship, Nessie’s Pond is rich with play value for users of all ages and abilities. The main attraction is the bespoke Nessie-themed Lappset interactive Sona. Designed to resemble the iconic creature herself, the dance arch bridges the gap between technology and play through a variety of educational games. Whether users are cracking the code in Codebreaker or hiding from the Moon Monster, everyone can feel included.

Legend Seeker Cove

Legend Seeker Cove, the focal point of the play space, is fitted with an eye-catching wheelchair-accessible Legend Seeker Playship. Brimming with play value, the ship has something for everyone and is packed with opportunities for imaginative play. Meanwhile, the Cove’s edge has a row of accessible swings, a wheelchair-accessible spinner, and a climbing bird’s nest for users to scout the Loch Ness legend.

Loch Side Escape

Designed to offer a challenge, the Loch Side Escape focuses on developing the fundamental movement skills of users. Kids can put their skills to the test with stepping stones, a climbing net and climbing poles, before braving the single or double-width slides to take them back to the start. The natural mound on which the area is built provides easy access for wheelchair users to access equipment, whilst offering added play value through the mound’s wet-pour design.

Outcome

The response from the local community has been overwhelmingly positive, with parents highlighting the need for play spaces like Whin Park across Inverness. The playground has also made headlines across a range of media outlets, calling attention to the success of The Highland Council’s investment.

Not only has the design brought the myth to life, but the playground itself acts as an educational tool for the history of the Loch Ness Monster whilst creating a space that the community is proud of. In doing so, this play space is sure to leave a lasting legacy for generations to enjoy.

Testimonial

I am very pleased that Whin Park's newly developed play area is now open to the public. Inclusivity is key to the council's playpark strategy, and the new equipment provides a first-class play offering whilst ensuring that play is for all. In particular, the new interactive play equipment can be enjoyed by users of all ages and abilities."
– Councillor Ian Brown, Leader of Inverness and Area