2020 Knowsley Helps Transform Play Area

18 December 2009

Landscape architects from 2020 Knowsley have just completed the transformation of a play area at Halton Brook, Runcorn, for Social Landlord Riverside. 

Prior to the project, the play area was very run down, with an old metal climbing frame and broken swings.  Riverside commissioned Mouchel, through a framework contract, to design a new play area, with funding from the Big Lottery Fund and Halton Council's Playbuilder fund, as well as from Riverside.   2020 Knowsley carried out consultation with local children to find out what they wanted the play area to be like, and came up with a design based on the theme of a "lost city" with different spaces within the area, which has been called "Brooker's Den."

"We aimed to make it challenging, in line with the latest play ideas," explains lead designer James Towers.  "Natural play is a key feature of the design, with an element of risk and the opportunity for children to experience different sensations such as sliding, climbing, flying and spinning, which provides a challenge and makes them want to come back for more."  The preferred option also includes a Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) which enables the children to be able to play ball games whatever the weather.

This commission also involved transforming a neglected old community garden nearby into a toddler play area, named "Diddy's Den," which includes water play, a swing, a slide and opportunities for adventurous play such as a bridge over a planting area, and an overall sense of mystery with different spaces for the children to explore.   A new retaining wall made from sleepers also improves the area, together with new planting.

To add further interest, local primary schools were invited to design a sculpture for Diddy's Den, and the winning design of a bird was what the sculptor has based the art work on.  Another larger sculpture, based upon the idea of a dragon, is due to be installed in Brooker's Den in the New Year.

At the start of the project, Sian Martin-Baez, Changing Spaces manager for Riversides, said: "We really want local kids to take ownership and pride in the play area, so that it can be enjoyed by everyone in the neighbourhood. We are really happy with the work that Mouchel have put in to the play area, it does a great job of lifting the area. We are looking forward to working with Mouchel on future projects."

Now that the new play area is completed, the number of children using and enjoying the new play area shows the success of the project, and the feedback from Play England has also been very encouraging.  "I think it's really made a positive impact on the community," says James.