Development Guide for Local Council Playgrounds

There are around 30,000 council playgrounds in the UK. Each one serves a unique community with different needs. However, there are some unifying requirements that local councils, from small Parishes to large Cities or County Councils, need to consider when designing or upgrading their playgrounds.

These requirements are:

  •  Staying within budget.
  • Providing safe environments that last.
  • Using sustainable, green materials where possible.
  • Providing full accessibility and inclusivity.
  • Reflecting the unique needs and history of the local area.

Council Playgrounds and Park Projects from PlaySmart

PlaySmart has been a trusted provider of quality surfacing for Parish Councils, Local Government Association, city planners, and private designers for years. Here are some recent projects from us for Local Council playgrounds and parks that our clients love…

Smart Choices for Development Budgets

Especially in the early stages of development, budgets have the potential to limit the scope of your plans and designs. At PlaySmart UK we are always here to help you meet your budget whilst maintaining the idea and plan you would like to fulfil.

With product guarantees up to 10 years and installation guarantees of 5 years, PlaySmart’s surfaces surpass industry standards for durability, giving you the confidence that our high quality products are built to last! We give you security that any money invested in the development will be evident in the continued consistency of the surface.

Close-up on EPDM Smart red & green varieties in a playground

Safer Parks for Local Communities

As leading providers of safety surfacing, we understand the importance of minimising risks. With visitors of all ages it is important to limit accidents and avoid injuries. That is where we shine! 🤩

Each of our products is tested and certified to meet and exceed BS EN 1177 fall protection and BS 7188 slip resistance. The SmartPlay System offers up to a 3m Critical Fall Height making it a popular solution in open playing areas. For more on British Safety Standards, check out our recent article.

Rubber playground matting installed underneath a large red rope climbing frame

Sustainable Choices for Greener Futures

Corkeen is our most sustainable surface material and is therefore an increasingly popular choice for Local Councils. We responsibly source our fully recyclable carbon negative cork flooring- giving you peace of mind throughout the lifecycle of your surface.

In the last few years, councils are dedicating more effort and money into finding sustainable solutions, Corkeen is an amazing solution meeting CFH requirements and being SuDS compliance.

Creating Local Playgrounds for Everyone

Inclusivity is a core tenet of community development. Ensuring public services like parks, exercise areas, and playgrounds are suitable for everyone is an essential consideration for local planners. PlaySmart’s experts can help to advise in the development or expansion of your playgrounds and parks to meet UK accessibility guidelines.

Our range of rubber surfacing includes incredibly versatile surfaces suitable for improving accessibility. All of our product range can be used to help promote accessibility such as ramps and pathways to improve access to areas.

Rubber mulch is best surface for a playground in a residential area

Are you Looking to Upgrade or Develop a Playground for your Local Area?

Contact our experts to discuss your options by filling in the handy form on our contact page. We can help you with the entire process, from design to installation and even the maintenance and future repairs!