Context

Proludic has revitalised the Water Adventure Play Park in Weston-super-Mare into a vibrant, inclusive, seaside-themed leisure destination that captures the spirit of this iconic coastal town.

Challenge

Positioned just off the seafront promenade, the location presented several environmental and logistical challenges. The previous timber equipment had deteriorated due to the harsh coastal climate. While poor drainage across the site required a carefully considered design.

With high summer footfall and existing underground flood defences, the new layout needed to be both durable and inclusive while enhancing the existing splash pad and kiosk areas.

Solution

Proludic was selected for its expertise in coastal projects, strong guarantees and its robust innovative product range built for the harshest environments. Using a durable material palette of high-pressure laminate (HPL) and structural steel, backed by lifetime guarantees, Proludic was able to offer long-term solutions resilient to the salty air and heavy usage. But its team went beyond just resilience. Proludic delivered a truly destination-style play park designed to delight and inspire visitors of all ages and abilities.

Project detail

Bespoke coastal and water-themed features

A central feature of the park is the impressive J2696 Whale from Proludic’s Aquatica range. Measuring 10.42m long, this play structure accommodates up to 70 users and delivers 59 distinct play functions. The whale features internal net climbs, Perspex window slides, a hammock and swings. This creates an immersive and physically challenging experience that sparks imagination and social play.

Standing nearby is the J47251 Lighthouse, another highlight from the Aquatica range. This 6.9m-high tower features a spiral staircase, high fire pole, and space for 18 users across 12 play functions. It provides sweeping views of the sea and park, adding a dramatic sense of adventure and exploration.

The toddler zone includes several interactive elements designed for younger children. The J2646-M Odyssey, J2615 Little Boat, and inclusive J2406 WOK Spinner offer safe, sensory-rich experiences for users as young as two. These pieces support key developmental milestones while allowing families to play together in a visible, well-situated area close to amenities.

Accessible, inclusive play design

Throughout the site, a sensory pathway featuring seven tactile surfaces guides children through various themed areas. Meanwhile, 'play on the way' elements such as play panels, sound features, and the J3501 Rodeoboard challenge older children’s balance, coordination, and teamwork.

Accessibility and inclusion were integral to the design. The park includes an inclusive swing seat, communication panel for non-verbal users, accessible surfacing and wide paths. Seating and picnic areas are strategically placed to allow parents to supervise children across different zones, with shade structures increasing comfort during peak season.

Navigating around flood defences and underground services required careful planning, but Proludic’s design optimised the space for movement, safety and usability. The result is a high-impact, inclusive water adventure play park where families can explore, play and have a whale of a time for years to come.

Testimonial

"The play area has been literally taken to another level with this design that Proludic has done. We have got the themes of the Seaside…fish and chips play panel, interactive play, we have got the Whale!"
– Sarah Pearse, Chief Executive Officer & Town Clerk, Weston-super-Mare Town Council