Replacing an entire play area is never straightforward — and for a small parish community, funding is everything. eibe Play worked closely alongside the CRGC from the very beginning, supporting a public consultation at the Village Hall, creating bespoke designs, and tailoring proposals to meet the specific requirements of grant funders.
After two unsuccessful bids to the National Lottery, the team regrouped. A revised design and phased budget plan was agreed, splitting the project into two phases and opening the door to new funding opportunities.
Phase 1 was made possible by a £55,000 grant from the Enovert Community Fund, secured thanks to the revised approach. On 1st July 2026 — nearly four years after the project began — Phase 1 was completed and ready for the children of Clearwell to enjoy during their summer holidays.
The new play area features a carefully selected range of eibe FSC-certified timber equipment, installed on steel feet with grass matting safety surfacing to maximise play value while keeping costs manageable:
- 20m Zip Line
- Large Multi-Play Unit (suitable for ages 3–12)
- 4-Person Seesaw
- Wheelchair Accessible Carousel
- In-Ground Trampoline
What's Next
eibe Play continues to work with the CRGC to secure a further £100,000 from a dedicated inclusive grant scheme to fund Phase 2 — which will include new pathways, eight swings (including an inclusive basket swing and SEN swing seats), a perimeter path, and a sensory area. Subject to funding confirmation in Summer 2026, Phase 2 is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
This project is a powerful example of eibe Play's commitment to supporting clients from start to finish — not just supplying equipment, but acting as a genuine partner through the entire journey, including navigating the complex world of community funding.
"This project demonstrates exactly what eibe Play is about — long-term partnership, creative problem-solving, and delivering play spaces that communities will treasure for generations."
