Guildford Borough Council to improve play facilities at Dan’s Meadow, The Briars
Guildford Borough Council to improve play facilities at Dan’s Meadow, The Briars
Groundworks for a new playground in South Ash will start on Monday 9 December. The design for the Safari Adventure play area was finalised after we consulted local people.
Consultation key findings
80% of those that responded to the consultation said they liked the design. Reasons given for not liking the design or answering ‘do not know’ centred around four main themes.
Too few swings in the design
The council checked the range of swinging equipment. With seven pieces of equipment offering a swing motion including traditional swings for toddlers and juniors, it was decided that the finished playground will provide enough swing-like equipment.
Access for people with disabilities
Some respondents were concerned about options available to people with disabilities. The playground is designed to be inclusive for a range of abilities and needs, so there is something for all abilities. In many instances disabled and non-disabled children will be able to play together.
90% of the equipment is accessible from a hard standing surface and several play panels for sensory and tactile play will be at wheelchair height. Many other features of the play equipment support those with mobility and sensory difficulties.
The amount of seating available
There were already two benches in the fenced playground area and one outside. The council will add another bench outside the fenced area in response to the consultation comments.
Choice of materials
Some respondents would prefer to see a timber finish more in keeping with the site and nature. Play equipment will be metal as this offers easier and more cost-effective maintenance. To blend into the setting, we will use a blend of green tones and metal finishes. Six trees and wildflower areas will be planted to bring nature into the play space. This will also link it to the surrounding open space.
Lead Councillor for Environment and Climate Change, Cllr George Potter said:
“I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to respond to the Briars Play Area consultation. I’m very pleased with the positive reaction we’ve had to the design.
“I’m looking forward to seeing this exciting and inclusive play space completed. It’s another example of how we’re making Guildford a greener, fairer, thriving community.”
The cost of the playground replacement will mostly be funded by Section 106 payments from development in the Ash area. It will also receive part-funding from the government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The build will take around eight weeks, subject to weather conditions. The council plans to open it in early spring.