Challenge

King George’s Field, Hanwell is set amongst a densely packed residential area in the London Borough of Ealing. The existing play equipment was worn out and in great need of development.

In 2007, multi-award-winning landscape architects Adam White and Andrée Davies of Groundwork London spent six months working closely with local residents and children to design a new play area.

Solution

Timberplay was contacted to create innovative play products for the natural and engaging playground design.

Two popular features are the 1.5 metres wide slide and pod swing, both promoting social interaction alongside play.

The climbing forest, which serves as a focal point for the play space, was been selected because of its appeal to all users of the space regardless of age.

The designers also created areas more appropriate for younger children.

Rather than have segregated fenced areas, they used landform and low timber retaining walls to suggest boundaries, creating a safe play space without compromising the design of the site.

Outcome

The project represents a £230,000 capital investment from the local council and landfill trust BIFFAWARD.

It has provided the children in the area with a fantastic new play area to explore, that is a vast improvement from the old playground.