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Summerdale Playpark
59 degrees north were approached by Orkney Islands Council to redesign and build a local play park which had fallen into disrepair.
With natural play being the council's preferred strategy for future play parks we very much enjoyed designing the park with an emphasis on natural materials, play features and introducing wildflower and native tree planting.
Over 100 tons of sand were imported along with excavations of existing levels to create a dramatic topography for play and shelter. Local beach and quarry stone was used to create a mains fed water play feature with stainless steel hand water pump, a bbq and seating area, rocks set into slopes for climbing and large stone dragon features with carved dragons eggs just about to hatch! Natural turned timber was used to create climbing play up the existing slopes. Tarmac paths were introduced to allow access for all abilities and also act as a surface for bike riding and skateboarding. Timber and galvanised steel swings were installed and the existing stainless steel slide retained. A willow tunnel was planted along with wildflowers, native trees and ornamental plants.
The playpark has been very well received and is the model the council are using in future park developments.