Customer case
Symn Lane Play Area, Wooton-under-Edge Town Council
Designed with children, created for the next generations
Wooton-under-Edge Town Council approached KOMPAN to support them in refurbishing an existing playground that was close to 2 primary schools. The equipment had been there for over 20 years and was they very much loved by the local community, but was in need of an update and modernisation. With the site next door to Blue Coat Primary, the council wanted to create a space where children can go before and after school, as well as the holidays. KOMPAN supported Wooton-under-Edge in public consultations, including two school consultations involving Early Years, KS1 and KS2.
After the public and school consultations, there was a clear need for equipment for the very young as well as Years 5 and 6. They were in need of a challenge, engagement and excitement. For the smaller year groups, the council chose to include more accessible and inclusive equipment for all ages.
Due to the heights of the towers, there was some pushback from nearby neighbours, but after review of the old equipment being similar heights to the new equipment, and also moving the equipment positions, the neighbours were appeased. There was also some concern from parents that the towers were too difficult for the ages of 4-8, but after seeing the tower in use and KOMPAN supporting the need for risky play, the parents could then see the benefit.
The client was absolutely delighted with the final result. They commented on the extreme professionalism of KOMPAN, their contractors, and the aftercare and support received to engage with the local community.
Designed around what children really wanted
The children were listened to at every stage of the process. For the older children, the brief originally had a 7-Tower Unit with mid-height platforms, but this was deemed not challenging enough so they opted for the 5-Tower XL Unit to ensure Years 5 and 6 had plenty of exciting elements to play on. A Nest Swing was included as well as the Inclusive Home Seesaw with supported backrest. The old trail equipment was replaced with new Robinia hardwood trail items, including monkey bars, stepping posts and lots of balancing. For the younger visitors, new springers and a new play hut were added to a wetpour pad and pathway, making the area much more accessible.
PHYSICAL
Games area to help elevate fitness, muscle and bone strength, motor skills and cognitive function.
Cognitive
Joy of learning: curiosity, understanding of causal relationships and knowledge of the world
SOCIAL - EMOTIONAL
A safe space to help children nurture their social skills through teamwork and provide a sense of belonging. Decreasing a Child's stress and increasing their joy while on holiday.
Creative
Joy of creating: co-creation and experimenting with materials
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