A new playground in Nottingham is more than a recreational area. It’s a visionary example of how urban spaces can be transformed to meet the needs of residents
Amid the bustling urban landscape of the Broadmarsh redevelopment in Nottingham city centre, a new playground stands as a beacon of innovation and community spirit.
Located on Collin Street, the playground not only enhances the aesthetics of the area, it provides a vital green recreational space for local residents. The project exemplifies how urban spaces can be reimagined to serve the needs of communities.
Buildings in Nottingham’s Broadmarsh area, like many urban centres, are seeing an increasing transition from retail to residential use. As a result, more inner-city residents require access to essential amenities, including recreational spaces.
Playequip: innovating with design and materials
The Collin Street playground was designed, fabricated and installed by play specialist PlayEquip in collaboration with Townshend Landscape Architects and on-site co-ordinator ARES.
One of the standout features is the innovative use of materials. The timber balance trail, constructed from FSC-certified oak with vibrant red-stained ends and supported by powder-coated red steel shoes, adds a striking visual element to the landscape.
Bespoke swings equipped with LED lights ensure the playground remains inviting and safe even during the darker winter months. The sizeable timbers and steel swings also make this an exceptionally durable installation that will be enjoyed for many years to come.
Designing in safety - and accessibility
Ensuring the playground was safe and accessible for all children was paramount. The design process involved creating detailed 3D CAD models to identify and address potential safety issues early on.
Collaboration with an independent play safety inspector ensured the final installation of the playground equipment met UK play safety standards without compromising creativity or play value.
The playground has quickly become a favourite spot for local residents of all ages. By providing a safe and engaging play space, it supports the physical and social wellbeing of children living in the inner city.
The inclusion of seesaws and a timber trail, which weaves through the planting areas, encourages exploration and interaction, making the playground a focal point for community activity.
A range of age groups enjoys the space, including university students who use the seesaws as a fun meeting place to chat, highlighting the playground’s role as a playful community space as well as a traditional playground.
Futureproofing urban play spaces
The playground’s design includes flexible and adaptable features, which will allow it to evolve with changing community needs while remaining a relevant and cherished part of the city’s landscape.
As cities continue to evolve, projects like this demonstrate the importance of integrating green spaces and play areas into urban planning.
By prioritising safety, durability and community engagement, Playequip has created a playground that is beautiful, functional and an essential part of the urban fabric.
Find more on this case study at playequip.com/broadmarsh
For more information and technical support, visit playequip.com
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