Plans for a completely refurbished play area with new equipment at the Recreation Ground in Swanage are in full swing.
The playground near to the bandstand and overlooking the beach, has been well loved over the years but was due for a revamp.
Now with perfect timing, when everyone is spending more time outdoors, the refurbishment by Swanage Town Council, should be completed in time for the Christmas holidays, barring any unforeseen delays.
Accessible to all children
The site has been designed along the principles of Play England, a charity that campaigns for all children and young people to have the freedom and space to play throughout childhood. In particular, the new equipment aims to be accessible to all children with and without disabilities.
Most of the play items are new but the train, which is very popular, is being refurbished and will be reinstalled with a new train station themed games panel. As it is Swanage, as well as the train, there will be a new lifeboat themed multi play unit with climbing ramp and slide.
A compass made from Purbeck stone boulders
Other new equipment includes a compass made from Purbeck stone boulders, a large space net for climbing, a roundabout that everyone can spin on, not to forget a variety of swings including a basket swing and a cobra rope swing, which up to eight children can use at the same time.
There will also be two new accessible picnic benches for families. The whole project is being funded by Swanage Town Council.
“We wanted to ensure that the play area was inclusive”
Swanage Town Council’s operations manager, Gail Percival said:
“It was very important to the council that the designs for the new play area took into account full consideration of the Play England principles.
“We wanted to ensure that the play area was inclusive, made use of natural elements, was accessible to everyone with and without disabilities, sustainable, provided a wide range of play experiences, and of course, most of all, we hope it will be a lot of fun!”
