Play area construction, Crab Lane Primary School

Challenge

Crab Lane Primary School had a large, partly shaded area of land for outdoor play, which was often flooded after wet weather.

The school wanted an area which could be used safely in all weathers, required minimum maintenance and created a number of different play spaces with textures, surfacing, sounds and safety all important factors.

Solution

Massey & Harris adjusted the ground levels of the area to allow water to run off the play area and new drains were installed for extra drainage

The changes in levels were made more interesting through the use of a Storyteller’s circular seating area, rounded by raised and bordered planting areas with loose fill natural surfacing.

A planting area was created to give children the opportunity to get involved in creating their play space, with parents and Hulme Community Garden Centre invited for an educational planting afternoon.

Along with transforming the steep open section into an educational garden, pathways were created between them to allow children to use their bicycles.

Safagrass matting was used to create a grassy area allowing year round use of the mushroom seats and musical play panels.

A 7x7m TIPO canopy was constructed close to the nursery door meaning children could play outdoors whatever the weather. Crash pads were installed to ensures children can run around with no risk of injury from the metal legs

A large rubber wet-pour area links the canopy area with an existing multi-play unit which was relocated from another area.

Outcome

The new equipment gives the school a multi-purpose play area, improved by new drainage, that is suitable for use all year round.

It offers safe and secure seating and play areas, interactive play features and the opportunity for increased social interaction within the StoryTeller area.