Context

eibe Play has revitalised Gostrey Meadow in Farham with a new inclusive play area.

Gostrey Meadow is a green space that plays a central role in community life. Easily accessible to residents and visitors, it provides a natural setting for relaxation, recreation and gatherings. Throughout the summer, Farnham Town Council hosts weekly musical events on the meadow, drawing families and friends together in this vibrant social hub.

In the centre of Gostrey Meadow sits the children’s play area. While much-loved, the equipment had grown tired and dated, consisting mainly of a multi-play unit, swings, spring rockers and a sandpit. Despite its age, the play area remained extremely popular with families visiting Farnham.

Challenge

In late 2024, based on a site visit, eibe Play was invited to tender for the refurbishment of this well-used facility, a project which perfectly aligned with its core design values.

The redevelopment plan includes removing the existing equipment and extending the play space into the adjacent grassland. This cleared area also forms part of the Council’s wider vision: by 2026, a new toilet block will be constructed alongside Phase 2 of the play area, which will introduce sensory and water play features.

Solution

Play equipment

eibe's design for the new play area prioritises inclusivity, ensuring it is accessible for all users throughout the year. To support families and encourage seamless navigation, surfacing and layouts were incorporated that promote year-round usability. The equipment, crafted from natural materials such as Robinia hardwood and softwood pine, blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.

As children enter the play space, they will discover a toddler zone featuring Daisy toddler swings, the Toddler multi-play unit, and an inclusive roundabout. Across from this area, exciting features such as the inclusive Stand-Up Seesaw and Frog spring rocker invite cooperative play.

Further into the space, children encounter a wide variety of adventurous equipment, including the River Wey structure with a 1.9m slide, nets, climbing walls and a balancing trail. Other highlights include a nest swing and Junior swing combination, the Namaka Spinner, Crawling Bridge, and a communication panel to encourage interactive play.

Surfacing

Given the proximity to the actual River Wey, it was important to integrate themed safety surfacing that connects play with place. Wet-pour surfacing was used to create a playful “River Wey” flowing through the site, enhanced with lilypad and frog graphics. Around this, nature-themed motifs such as flowers and kingfishers reinforce the meadow’s character and wildlife.

Outcome

eibe Play was awarded the scheme in early 2025, with construction beginning in June. On a bright summer’s afternoon in late July, the grand opening attracted a large crowd of families eager to explore the new space. To celebrate, eibe Play supported the event with a circus act and complimentary ice creams for the first visitors.

The company looks forward to a continued partnership with Farnham Town Council to ensure the play area thrives for generations to come.