Improving play facilities at Dan's Meadow, The Briars

Groundworks for a new playground in South Ash will start on Monday 9 December. We finalised the design for the Safari Adventure play area after consulting local people.

Consultation key findings

80% of those that responded to the consultation said they liked the design. Reasons given for not liking the design or answering 'do not know' centred around four main themes.

Too few swings in the design

We've checked the range of swinging equipment. There are seven pieces of equipment offering a swing motion including traditional swings for toddlers and juniors. So, we decided that the finished playground will provide enough swing-like equipment.

Access for people with disabilities

Some respondents were concerned about options available to people with disabilities. The playground is designed to be inclusive for a range of abilities and needs. This means there is something for all abilities. In many instances disabled and non-disabled children will be able to play together.

90% of the equipment is accessible from a hard standing surface
several play panels for sensory and tactile play will be at wheelchair height
other features of the play equipment support those with mobility and sensory difficulties.

The amount of seating available

There were already two benches in the fenced playground area and one outside. We'll be adding another bench outside the fenced area in response to the consultation.

Choice of materials

Some respondents would prefer to see a timber finish more in keeping with the site and nature. Play equipment will be metal as this offers easier and more cost-effective maintenance. To blend into the setting we are using a blend of green tones and metal finishes. Six trees and wildflower areas are being planted to bring nature into the play space. This will also link it to the surrounding open space.

Lead Councillor for Environment and Climate Change, Cllr George Potter said:

"I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to respond to the Briars play area consultation. I'm very pleased with the positive reaction we've had to the design.

"I'm looking forward to seeing this exciting and inclusive play space completed. It's another example of how we're making Guildford a greener, fairer, thriving community."

How are we funding these improvements at Dan's Meadow?

from local development money
with part-funding from the government UK Shared Prosperity Fund (opens new window).

When will the park open?

The build will take around eight weeks, subject to weather conditions. We plan to open it in early spring.

Published on: 29 November 2024