Following an initial pre-tender evaluation process, eibe was invited to bid for the tender against six other companies. Following a competitive bid process, which included detailed scrutiny of our environmental processes and the sustainability of our product range, our design was chosen.
The design brief was to include them relevant to the locality, be inclusive, and target all ages up to mid-teens. Our Play Consultant, Iain Etridge, worked closely with the design team to create a wonderful, natural play area from softwood with a colourful and themed wet pour safety surface. The Centrepiece play equipment was our inclusive and accessible, bespoke Bovey Castle, which includes accessible ramps to allow wheelchair access to many areas of the castle and accessible play panels—using a thematic approach to reflect a coherent play journey aimed at sequential movement through opportunities to exercise different muscle groups and to stimulate imagination. We used Bovey Tracey’s local heritage to create distinct play areas without the use of rigid.
Zoning allows a natural flow around the play area.
The use of timber for the play area reflected the natural elements of the environment and locality, which is also tactile and environmentally friendly. Each post is fixed to steel feet to increase the lifespan and prevent rot.
Using colourful designs within the safety surface, we provided a bright and vibrant play area appealing to each age group. The nature-themed toddler play area reflects the local heritage of Dartmoor. It offers educational opportunities through nature play panels and designs within the safe surface of local flora.
The junior area was designed to incorporate a river running around the Bovey Castle unit and the associated play equipment, with the carousel including a standing stone circle design around it.
The Teen area provides play opportunities to engage with teens physically and socially. Providing challenging elements with the Figure of 8 Teen Ninja Trail unit promotes exercise, challenge, and social interaction in a unique environment through climbing, balance, jumping, swinging, competition, and team play. The performance stage/seats allow for social interaction, relaxation and imaginative play. Traditionally, playgrounds are designed for active play and do not include passive play opportunities. This has the most significant impact on females because they love social play, conversation and observational play.
Opened in January 2024, the feedback from the Town Council and residents has been fantastic, and many generations will enjoy the play area to come.
