PlayNation UK ISSUE 5 2026
D L I W G N I PLAY
nchester
ide at Wi l l o c y a l p & e r u ce, nat
Scien
National Festival of Play
Reclaiming towns for people
TAKING PLAY SERIOUSLY The story of Reepham Primary School
National Play Conference
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
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The importance
of Play!
Play England campaigns for all children and young people to have freedom and space to play throughout childhood. We work with national partners and other organisations with shared aims to raise awareness about the importance of play. We lobby government to make fundamental policy changes to protect and promote play, and encourage everyone who has an impact
on the lives of children and young people to recognise and plan for children’s play. Play England has also built up considerable experience and resources to help support individuals and organisations that work in these particular areas: Government Local Authorities Schools Playwork
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The new UK government is making positive noises about understanding the importance of play. However, against this positive backdrop, Play England is suffering from a lack of funds to pay for our essential work campaigning for children’s right and freedom to play.
Donate today to support our work. www.playengland.org.uk/donate
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CONTENTS ISSUE 5 2026
PlayNation UK ISSUE 5 2026
PLAYING WILD
Science, nature
& play collide at
National Festival of Play
Reclaiming towns for people
Winchester
TAKING PLAY SERIOUSLY The story of Reepham Primary School
National Play Conference
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
PlayNation UK
42 58
52 10 News & opinion
The latest news from around the play sector
16 Column: Maria Cantarella
CEO of the AIP calls on the government not to forget children and families on VAT decision
20 Nation comes out to play
Playday 2026 demonstrated the many different ways communities can create space for play
26 National Play Conference
A comprehensive look at the programme and plans for the inaugural National Play Conference, which is held on 9 October at the University of Warwick
36 Interview: Stuart Pettit
MD of KOMPAN UK explains how research plays a big role in the company’s products
8
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
42 Go Wild in Winchester
Splashing chalk streams and giggling fossils are helping families reconnect through play at Winchester Science Centre
50 Taking school play seriously
How a primary school in Norfolk is treating playtime as an important part of the school day, with thought given to the environment, resources and staff support around it
52 Festival of play
The town of Crawley is championing children’s right to play through a multi-arts festival that reshapes the built environment as a space to play
58 Play spaces with
purpose (and water)
Jeremy Sutherland, MD of Ustigate Waterplay, writes how water play deserves a permanent place in the UK’s public spaces
The importance of play and physical activity for young people PlayNation, in partnership with Play England and SAPCA (the Sports And Play Construction Association), is dedicated exclusively to the dynamic and growing sector of play and physical activity for children and young people. Published bi-monthly, the magazine focuses on the policies, people and places that help young people to play and be more active. Subscribe now and we will email you a complimentary copy of the magazine every two months.
Subscribe today for regular news & updates http://www.playnation.uk http://www.linkedin.com/ company/playnationmag Advertising opportunities Contact John john@nationmedia.uk PlayNation is published by SportsNation Ltd in association with Play England (www. playengland.org.uk) and the Sports And Play Construction Association (www.sapca.org.uk) This publication is protected by copyright and no part may be reproduced, transmitted or stored in any print or electronic format without the written permission of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this publication and PlayNation accepts no responsibility for any error or misrepresentation. Opinions expressed by the contributors and advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher and we do not accept responsibility of losses or damages arising from them. Printed by BCP Media Group Ltd.
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AIP and 400-strong member base backs campaign for 0% VAT The Association of Indoor Play (AIP) is leading a nationwide campaign calling for children’s indoor play admissions to be permanently zero-rated for VAT. The campaign, launched in August 2026, is backed by AIP’s 400 member centres alongside other indoor play UNSPLASH.COM/@WRECKER2281337
operators across the UK. More than 3000 people have also signed a Parliamentary petition supporting the proposal. AIP argues that charging the standard 20% VAT rate on indoor play conflicts with wider efforts to
At the time of publishing, the Parliamentary petition has over 3200 signatures
increase children’s physical activity, reduce screen time and improve physical and mental wellbeing. The campaign follows the Government’s Great British Summer
seeing our industry come together
Savings scheme, which temporarily
behind it,” explains Maria Cantarella,
reduced VAT from 20% to 5%
CEO of the Association of Indoor Play.
on eligible children’s admissions and food during the summer. “What has been incredibly powerful since launching this campaign is
PHOTO: USTIGATE
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
“Most parents simply don’t realise that when they pay to take their
“This is an issue our industry
child to an indoor play centre, part
needs to speak about collectively.
of that price is tax. Once you explain
But this isn’t just an industry issue.
that children’s play is taxed at 20%,
Ultimately, it is families who pay the
the obvious question is: why?”
Ustigate launches Vortex Spray Stones for aquatic play Ustigate has introduced Spray
Three individual models – Spray
Stones, a new collection of aquatic
Stone A, B, and C – can be arranged
play features from its partner Vortex
in different configurations, giving
International, designed to bring a
designers greater flexibility when
more natural aesthetic to splashpads
creating aquatic play spaces.
and water play environments.
10
VAT through the price of admission.
Each Spray Stone incorporates
Inspired by organic stone forms,
adjustable jets, allowing different
the collection combines sculptural
water patterns to be created while
design with interactive water effects.
maintaining efficient water use.
PHOTO: MOLE VALLEY DISTRICT COUNCIL
£190,000 Hamworthy Park upgrade to boost inclusive play The playground at the Ashtead Recreation Ground is among the venues to get an upgrade
A £190,000 refurbishment of Hamworthy Park play area in Poole is set to begin in the coming weeks,
Mole Valley council to invest £3.5m to improve play
with accessibility and inclusive play at the centre of the new design. The project follows collaboration between Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council’s green spaces
Mole Valley District Council
Following a competitive
has committed to investing
procurement process – which
more than £3.5 million in
included site visits and pre-
Andy Hadley, the council’s
improving playgrounds under
market engagement to help
portfolio holder for Parks, said:
a new Play Area Investment
shape the specification – the
“Inclusivity has been at the heart
and Refurbishment Programme.
council appointed Proludic to
of this design from the very
The multi-year programme will
design and deliver the new
beginning with local families,
refurbish and upgrade a number
and refurbished play spaces.
children, and specialist accessibility
of play areas across the district.
Proludic will work with the
team, Diverse Abilities, and local children, young people and families.
organisations helping to shape
It will deliver improvements
council to design engaging
a space that caters for a wide
across five existing playgrounds
and inclusive play areas, use
range of needs and abilities.”
in Ashtead, Dorking, Bookham
sustainable materials and long
The revamped play area will be
and Leatherhead, create a
lasting equipment and consult
divided into four zones, offering a
brand-new destination play
with local communities as designs
mix of active, sensory and quieter
area in Leatherhead and
are developed. As part of that
play experiences. Wheelchair-
deliver additional recreational
process, the council has opened
accessible equipment will feature
installations at several other sites.
a public consultation process.
throughout, alongside specialist
PHOTO: AMANDA GUMMER
inclusive and sensory play features.
Dr. Amanda Gummer resigns as Chair of API Dr. Amanda Gummer has resigned
process of considering the next
from her role as Chair of the
Chair of the organisation.
Association of Play Industry (API). Gummer, who has served in
Mark Wood, API Vice Chair, said: “I’d like to thank Amanda for her
the post for three years, will
commitment and the valuable
officially step down from the
contribution she’s made over the past
role at the end of November.
three years. We’re currently exploring
In a statement, API said its
opportunities for Amanda to continue
executive team will begin the
to contribute to our work.”
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
11
Bournemouth’s Kings Park play area set for major upgrade Work has begun on a major refurbishment of Kings Park play area, bringing new climbing, swinging and inclusive play opportunities to the popular Bournemouth park. BCP Council started work on 1 September, with the seven-week project effectively rebuilding the play space from scratch as part of its wider Plan for Play The redesigned area will feature new swings, slides, climbing equipment and a zip-wire, with the layout shaped by feedback gathered during a community
The Kings Park project forms part of BCP Council’s £4.6 million Plan for Play strategy
consultation in summer 2025. Adventure play will be a major
Other additions include a wide slide,
million Plan for Play strategy,
focus, while quieter areas and
carousel, wheelchair-accessible
which is delivering improvements
accessible equipment have been
roundabout and inclusive see-saw.
across around 100 play areas.
incorporated to ensure the space can
Hags has been appointed
Other sites benefiting from the
be enjoyed by children with a wider
to supply the new equipment
programme include Queen’s Park,
range of needs. At the heart of the
following a procurement and design
Treasure Island and Bourne Valley,
new play area will be a large multi-
process. The Kings Park project
alongside smaller upgrades at
play structure with ramped access.
forms part of BCP Council’s £4.6
locations including Arne Crescent.
Priory Park play area restored PHOTO: PROLUDIC
Priory Park in Launceston has been transformed into a new inclusive play and fitness destination, with Proludic restoring a dedicated play space for local families after a three-year absence of equipment. The park had previously been a popular community facility, but repeated damage led to the removal of its play equipment. Discussions about bringing the site back into use began in 2022, with Launceston Town Council appointing Proludic to support funding, consultation, design and delivery. Feedback from local residents helped shape the new layout, which divides the park into distinct but connected
Launceston’s new accessible play, sport, and fitness space designed to encourage longer visits
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
zones while improving accessibility. New sensory and inclusive play features include a wheelchairaccessible roundabout and seesaw, while two football goal ends retain the park’s sporting function.
PHOTO: BCP COUNCIL
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Folkestone’s Lower Leas Coastal Park reopens after £750,000 project PHOTO: PROLUDIC
A new £750,000 coastal play park has opened in Lower Leas Coastal Park in Folkestone. This has elevated the existing site into the selfproclaimed “largest free adventure playground in the South-East”. Folkestone & Hythe District Council sought to improve access throughout this destination site so users of all abilities could enjoy all 15 zones equally. Proludic were the company selected to take on the vision with a design that matched the scale of the Council’s ambition. The Coastal Park’s biodiversity is reflected throughout the play
A gigantic five-tower timber structure provides a focal point for the park
space, with wildlife incorporated into the design. Bespoke timber
epic focal point, this comes in the
and develop teamworking skills.
climbing structures, rubbing posts
form of a gigantic 5-tower timber
Additionally, a bespoke Robinia bee
and colourful plaques celebrate
play structure ensuring users of
unit offers the youngest visitors
the natural surroundings. Children
all abilities can play together and
their first experience of climbing
can also enjoy a downloadable
experience the joy of playing at
and sliding within a fenced area,
activity sheet that encourages
height. A unique Arborea unit wraps
as well as providing little ones
them to go off the beaten track.
around a tree trunk and encourages
with much-needed shade during
The destination site needed an
children to get up close to nature
the hot summer months.
New play zone for Evesham Leisure Centre Work has been completed on the transformation of a former climbing wall area at Evesham Leisure Centre into an exciting new family play zone, on behalf of Wychavon District Council and Rivers Fitness (formerly Wychavon Leisure). The £275,000 project has reimagined underused space within the centre to provide an engaging indoor play experience and increase footfall to the site. The new Rivers PlayZone is designed for children aged up to 10 years old with age-appropriate areas for both toddlers and older children. Working alongside specialist play provider Play The reimagined space has increased footfall to the site
Revolution, Alliance Leisure has developed a multi-level dynamic play environment with slides, bash bags, climbing ramps, puzzles and blocks, plus a dedicated sensory zone for babies.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
PEOPLE
“Investing in children’s play
is an investment in healthier
children, stronger families and
more resilient local communities.”
Don’t Forget Children and Families on VAT decision Maria Cantarella CEO, Association of Indoor Play
E
wellbeing and social development, our
arlier this year, the Association of Indoor Play
sector has been largely overlooked.
(AIP) launched a national
The Government has already
campaign calling on
recognised the importance of
the UK Government to
children’s play through its temporary
permanently introduce
reduction in VAT from 20% to 5% this
0% VAT on children’s indoor play
summer. We believe the next step
admissions. The campaign followed
should be to permanently remove VAT
Andy Burnham’s announcement of
from children’s indoor play, making
a 20% reduction in business rates for
active play more affordable for families and recognising the vital role our sector
pubs, clubs and live music venues. While welcoming support for the wider leisure and
plays in building healthier communities.
hospitality sector, we don’t want children and families to be forgotten, with indoor play centres
We believe a permanent 0% VAT rate would:
facing some of the highest fixed operating costs
●
Make active play more affordable for families.
in the industry due to large premises, significant
●
Encourage more children to be physically active.
business rates liabilities and ongoing energy costs.
●
Improve access for lower-income households.
Indoor play centres provide safe, year-round
●
Support community leisure
spaces where millions of children play, exercise, learn and socialise every year. Yet despite their contribution to children’s physical health,
businesses across the UK. ●
Reinforce the Government’s commitment to prevention and children’s wellbeing.
mental wellbeing and development, the sector has received little targeted support compared with other parts of the leisure economy. If pubs deserve support because they are
The campaign builds on the sector’s support for the Government’s Great British Summer Savings initiative, with hundreds of AIP member
community assets, then surely the places where
centres offering discounted admissions, family
our children play, exercise, learn and develop
ticket deals, meal offers and seasonal promotions
deserve support too. Indoor play centres operate
throughout the summer holidays to help
from large buildings, making business rates
families enjoy affordable days out together.
one of our biggest overheads, while energy costs
We are calling on politicians from all parties
remain exceptionally high because of the size
to recognise that investing in children’s play is
of our venues. Despite delivering enormous
an investment in healthier children, stronger
benefits for children’s physical health, mental
families and more resilient local communities.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
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NEW FOR 2026 • Modernised Delivery Model • Flexible Study Options • Workforce Ready Teachers • Support Beyond Certification
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When liability matters Jon Dalton, Vice Chair and Technical Director of Register of Play Inspectors International (RPII), says that while great play is built around managed risk, safety should never be compromised
W
ell-designed play
normal for the organisation carrying out
equipment encourages
the inspection to also undertake minor
children to test
maintenance and repairs as part of an
their abilities,
ongoing maintenance contract. These
develop resilience
inspections are designed to identify
and learn how to assess risk in a safe
everyday issues arising from normal use.
environment. But, while assessing risk
Annual Inspections, however, serve a
is an essential part of developing healthy behaviours through play, there should never be uncertainty around the safety of the equipment itself. Before considering who should inspect a playground,
different purpose. They are intended to provide an independent, objective assessment of the overall condition, safety and compliance of the playground. Where the same company both
it’s worth dispelling a few common misconceptions.
identifies defects during an Annual Inspection and
Firstly, that all playground inspections are equal. This
stands to benefit from carrying out the resulting
is not the case. While many individuals offer inspection
repair work, there is the potential for a conflict of
services, the level of expertise, training and certification
interest. By choosing an independent RPII Annual
can vary considerably. Choosing someone who is not
Inspector, playground owners receive an impartial
appropriately qualified can leave defects unidentified,
report and remain free to appoint the contractor
standards misinterpreted and, ultimately, the playground
of their choice to undertake any remedial work.
owner exposed to unnecessary risk and potential liability. Another common misconception relates to maintenance. For operational inspections, it is entirely
The role of a qualified inspector is not to eliminate every element of risk
Finally, there is the misconception that the safest playground is one without risk. In fact, great play is built around managed risk. Play equipment is carefully designed around age-appropriate challenges to help children develop confidence, judgement and resilience by learning to assess risk for themselves. The role of a qualified inspector is not to eliminate every element of risk, but to identify hazards and ensure equipment remains as safe as it needs to be. Annual Inspections are a vital part of this process because they provide a comprehensive assessment of the entire play environment. A suitably qualified inspector will review structural integrity, wear and deterioration, stability, installation quality, surfacing, entrapment hazards and compliance with recognised safety standards. In the unfortunate event of an accident, an Annual Inspection carried out by an appropriately qualified, independent professional also provides evidence that the playground owner has taken reasonable steps to manage risk responsibly and mitigate liability. Investing in an RPII-certified Annual Inspector is therefore an investment in both children’s safety and your organisation’s future. ● https://www.playinspectors.com
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
£17m MyActive Leek opens with new indoor adventure play area A new indoor adventure soft play attraction has opened at MyActive Leek following a £17 million redevelopment of the former Brough Park Leisure Centre. The Staffordshire Moorlands facility has been transformed by Alliance Leisure on behalf of Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, with the project forming part of the wider regeneration of Leek town centre. A key part of the redevelopment is an expanded family offer centred on a large indoor adventure soft play area. The attraction includes a dedicated baby sensory zone,
The MyActive Leek development is a significant investment for the area
while TAG play technology adds an interactive element designed
The project has received £10 million
to enhance both everyday
from the Government’s Levelling
Leek officially open and ready
visits and birthday parties.
Up Fund, more than £3 million from
to serve the community,” says
“It’s fantastic to see MyActive
Dedicated party facilities have
the council and £1.8 million from
Rob Lashford, divisional director
also been introduced, alongside fully
Sport England. Additional funding
at Speller Metcalfe. “We’re
accessible changing provision and a
has supported improvements to
proud to have delivered the
Changing Places facility, supporting
outdoor activity areas and the
construction of a facility that
access for a wider range of families.
centre’s energy efficiency.
will make a real difference.”
Study links play and mental health Children who spend more time playing in playgrounds are happier and have better mental health, according to new analysis of a leading study of children’s play. For the first time, data has been examined from the British Children’s Pre-School Play Survey specifically to understand the role playgrounds play in children’s lives. The study, by leading play expert, Professor Helen Dodd, reveals that playgrounds are not only the PHOTO: PETER DYLLONG
number one place for young children to play away from home, but that more frequent playground play is associated with better wellbeing. Among the findings was that children who spend more time playing in playgrounds are happier, while more Professor Helen Dodd
frequent playground play is associated with better mental health and fewer emotional difficulties.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
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PEOPLE
A NATION COMES OUT TO PLAY From city-centre sandpits and adventure play to street games, messy play and the reopening of one of the UK’s best-known playgrounds, Playday 2026 demonstrated the many different ways communities can create space for play. PlayNation looks at how the national day for play was celebrated across the UK
F
or one day in August, parks, streets,
Coordinated by Play England, Play Wales,
community centres, town squares and
Play Scotland and PlayBoard Northern
open spaces across the UK were given an
Ireland, the campaign called for children to
additional purpose: somewhere to play.
have access to playful moments, everyday
Playday, the UK’s national day for play,
adventures, playful neighbourhoods and
returned on Wednesday 5 August with the theme Play – here, there, everywhere, encouraging communities
inclusive, welcoming environments. “Play does not belong in one place, one setting
to think beyond designated playgrounds and recognise
or one part of childhood,” said Play England
children’s ability – and right – to play throughout
executive director Eugene Minogue as the day
the places in which they live their everyday lives.
got underway. Events across the four nations demonstrated that point rather effectively.
The theme for this year’s event was “here, there, everywhere”
Playing together A clear demonstration of Playday’s ability to bring an entire local play sector together came in Bristol. Three events were held at The Ardagh, Eastville Park and Redcatch Community Garden, attracting a combined 1,981 children, young people and adults, according to Bristol Play and Youth Alliance (BPYA). Rather than being delivered by one provider, the programme brought together play organisations, community groups, charities and voluntary organisations from across the city. At Redcatch, for example, organisations involved included Learning Partnership West, sensory play specialists from WECIL and Home-Start Bristol and South Gloucestershire, which provided crafts and bubble activities. BPYA described that collaboration as central to Bristol’s approach, arguing that no single organisation can create a playful city on its own. Playday therefore became both an event and a demonstration of what year-round cooperation between those involved in children’s play can achieve.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
Play does not belong in one place, one setting or one part of childhood
Meanwhile, Wigan Council took the concept of “here, there and everywhere” rather literally. Its main celebration at Pennington Flash in
Play takes over the city In Wales, Playday continues to have a particularly visible local-authority presence.
Leigh offered a substantial programme including
Wrexham turned parts of its city centre into a
inflatable obstacle courses, trampolines, a climbing
large-scale play space. Queen Square and Llwyn
wall, football, scavenger hunts, arts and crafts,
Isaf hosted four hours of free activity, with the
junk modelling and pop-up family bike rides.
programme including water slides, painting,
But the council also supported smaller community Playday events across Wigan Borough through its Holiday Activities and Food programme. Activities
crafts, sports, loose-parts play and one of the event’s established favourites: a giant sandpit. The principle extended beyond simply entertaining
ranged from storytelling, bubbles and juggling at a
children. Wrexham Council describes its annual
picnic-and-play event in Astley to chalk-box making
Playday as part of its commitment to ensuring
in Beech Hill, nature walks in Ince, gymnastics and
children have the “time, space and freedom” to play.
dance equipment in Leigh, creative play sessions
Similar events took place across Wales. Rhyl’s
and even a technology playground featuring
celebration included messy and water play,
vintage computers, coding and arcade games.
circus skills, nature activities, sand play and
That decentralised model perhaps provided
a cardboard city, while children at Gladstone
one of the year’s closest matches to the
Gardens in Barry could build dens, create their
national theme: rather than asking every
own Cardboard City, use muddy kitchens and
family to travel to a single flagship event,
turn discarded materials into junk models.
opportunities to play were distributed through
In Aberaeron, RAY Ceredigion combined free
neighbourhoods and community organisations.
and messy play with music, arts and a recycled-
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
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PEOPLE
Sometimes it requires little more than allowing children to take over a park, a cardboard box, a patch of grass – or the street outside their front door fashion catwalk. Swansea’s celebration at the National Waterfront Museum included a dedicated quiet hour before the main event, while Pembrokeshire County Council staged an inclusive family Playday at Scolton Manor. The breadth of the Welsh programme demonstrated that a national campaign does not need to create identical local events. The common thread was less about prescribed equipment or activities and more about allowing children to explore, make, move, get messy and determine elements of their own play.
Scotland goes outdoors In Scotland, Kay Park in Kilmarnock was transformed into what organisers described as a giant playground for East Ayrshire’s free Playday. Sports and physical activity sat alongside creative zones, adventure trails and messy play, with local groups joining the programme. Cluarankwai Judo Club, for example, offered children the opportunity to step onto the mats and try judo. Further north, Play Scotland teamed up with Aberlour Children’s Charity for a free event at Hazlehead Park in Aberdeen, combining a scavenger hunt, bouncy castle, sandpit and loose-parts play. The celebration also had a more strategic element: children could contribute to Scotland’s Play Park Survey and help inform thinking about future outdoor play provision. That link between celebrating existing play opportunities and asking children what they want from future spaces is significant. Planning Aid Scotland also used Playday to support Play Scotland in gathering children’s views on their local play parks, including how they use them, what they enjoy and what could be improved.
Northern Ireland: play beyond one day Northern Ireland also interpreted Playday as something larger than a single day. Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council spread its celebrations across several days and locations.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
Playday activities used to renew call for play strategy Play Their Way (a national movement to transform the way children are coached in sport and physical activity through child-first coaching) and Play England used the interest in Playday to renew a call on PM Andy Burnham to revive the last Labour government’s National Play Strategy. At a Playday event in Westminster, both organisations urged the Prime Minister to finish the work he began in 2008. The call came after new Play Their Way research – conducted by Ipsos UK on behalf of UK Coaching
Mark Gannon, CEO, UK Coaching and Dame Karen Buck, Chair Play England
and released for Playday – suggests that nearly three quarters (72%) of parents with children (aged
Of the children surveyed, suitable spaces were
5-17) thought that children in general spent too little
also referenced by those aged 8-16. Some 30% said
time engaged in active play while 49% of children
that one of the things that stopped them spending
(aged 8-16) said they would like to spend more time
more time ‘doing active play with friends’ was that
playing active games for fun during their free time.
there were not enough places to play outside.
Parents surveyed felt that the biggest barriers
When it comes to taking part in sport, 40% of parents
to children having more ‘active play’ included:
surveyed said their child(ren) had stopped taking part
● Time spent watching TV, videos or
in a sport because it was ‘not fun enough’, highlighting
streamed content (60%)
the vital role played by coaches and the importance of
● Time spent gaming (58%)
the child-first coaching initiative, an evidence informed
● Time spent on social media (56%)
approach that prioritises fundamental rights of all
● Lack of suitable or safe spaces (46%)
children taking part in sport, including their right to play.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
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PEOPLE
The £3m Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground reopened on Playday
Sessions took place at Palace Demesne in Armagh on 4 August, Lurgan Park on Playday itself and Solitude Park in Banbridge on 6 August, giving primary-aged children opportunities for outdoor, active and unstructured play. At Millisle Play Area, Ards and North Down Borough Council programmed a succession of activities, moving from a scooter session to beach and nature play before finishing with games delivered by Active Youth NI. PlayBoard NI used the occasion to reiterate a
including a new 17-metre-long galleon, three-tower
broader policy message too, calling for a dedicated
treehouse and redesigned water-play area featuring
Northern Ireland Play Strategy and reforms that
a 12-metre crocodile. Accessibility improvements
embed children’s right to play more firmly within
include wheelchair-accessible spaces within the
planning and government decision-making.
galleon and treehouse, accessible paths, raised
More than an event
sand and water-play tables and sensory planting. For a playground which ordinarily attracts
Some of the most interesting Playday activity
more than one million visits a year, reopening on
occurred where the celebration became a catalyst
the national day for play provided perhaps the
for something longer-lasting. In Frome, the town
most tangible possible expression of the day’s
council combined an afternoon at the Key Centre
message: investment in places where children have
with the official opening of improvements to the
the freedom to create their own experiences.
nearby Tower View play area. Children and families could build bike ramps with Super Roots, try
Beyond Playday
cyanotype printing, learn to skateboard, make willow
The giant sandpits, water slides, inflatables and
dragonflies, listen to live music and help design a
messy-play sessions provide the photographs and
new Key Centre board game. Frome Town Council
memories. But the larger message is that play
subsequently reported a strong turnout for the event.
does not require a ticketed attraction, expensive
And in London, there was a particularly high-profile piece of timing. The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground
equipment or even a conventional playground. Sometimes it requires little more than allowing children to take over a park, a cardboard box, a patch
in Kensington Gardens reopened on Playday following
of grass – or the street outside their front door.
an eight-month, £3 million renewal by The Royal
And while Playday provides one date on which to
Parks. The project replaced and upgraded major
make that particularly visible, the challenge is what
elements of the Peter Pan-inspired playground,
happens during the other 364 days of the year.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
EVENT PREVIEW
National Play Conference
CREATING the CONDITIONS for PLAY With play enjoying renewed political attention, fresh government investment and a growing evidence base, the inaugural National Play Conference arrives at an important moment for the sector. PlayNation previews a packed day
T
here are moments when an
that allows children to play: policy, planning,
industry gathering becomes
funding, spaces, professional skills, public attitudes
about rather more than meeting
and, crucially, the voices of children themselves.
colleagues, exchanging ideas and
It also arrives at a time when play has gained a level
listening to presentations. For
of recognition within Westminster that the sector
the play sector, the inaugural
has spent years seeking. The All-Party Parliamentary
National Play Conference may
Group (APPG) on Play was formally established in
prove to be one of them.
September 2025, with Tom Hayes MP as Chair and
Taking place at The Slate, University of Warwick,
Play England providing the secretariat. Its stated
on Friday 9 October, the conference is being
objectives include championing a new National Play
organised by Play England and the Sports and
Strategy, supporting play sufficiency legislation and
Play Construction Association (SAPCA) and brings
strengthening play’s position within public policy.
together policymakers, practitioners, researchers,
Since that inaugural meeting, the APPG has met
designers, manufacturers, local authorities and
regularly in Parliament, holding eight meetings –
organisations working across children’s lives. Its
the latest one in July 2026. Subjects have ranged
theme – Creating the Conditions for Play – reflects
from play sufficiency and playgrounds to adventure
an ambition to look beyond individual playgrounds
play, schools, healthcare and digital play – evidence
or interventions and consider the wider ecosystem
of how broadly play now intersects with policy. Hayes will bring that Westminster perspective to Warwick with one of the conference’s headline sessions, A national moment for play: what should England do next?, considering how recent progress might translate into sustained national leadership. For SAPCA Chair Dr Kathryn Severn, the conference represents an opportunity to turn that momentum into practical progress. “We meet at a time when the importance of play has never been clearer,” she says. “Across the UK, children and young people are navigating rapid social, technological and environmental change. Their opportunities to play – freely, safely, joyfully, and in ways that support their development – are shaped by the decisions we make in planning, education, health, community design and national policy.”
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
Their opportunities to play – freely, safely, joyfully, and in ways that support their development – are shaped by the decisions we make in planning, education, health, community design and national policy PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
27
EVENT PREVIEW
From policy to places Government investment will inevitably form part of that conversation.
The programme deliberately stretches well beyond traditional playground provision. Sessions will examine the future of the play
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local
workforce; how play can be supported across
Government’s (MHCLG) £18 million Playground Fund
neighbourhoods, schools, healthcare and digital
is supporting 66 English local authorities to create,
environments; what sport and coaching can learn from
improve or enhance playgrounds in areas identified
child-led play; and the role of streets and public space.
as having the greatest need. Each authority is
There will also be the launch of the University
allocated £270,000 across 2026-27 and 2027-28,
of Exeter’s new Outdoor Play Research Centre,
with the programme placing particular emphasis on
while UK Community Foundations will introduce
accessibility, inclusion, community engagement and
Free to Play UK, a five-year initiative backed by
long-term maintenance. MHCLG will be represented
£9.3 million of initial investment and focused on
during a conference session bringing together
outdoor, child-directed and adventurous play.
planning, policy, evidence and investment. Meanwhile, Dr Michael Martin and Dr Paul Brindley
SAPCA itself will use the conference to signal further investment in play. Within the next 12 months,
from the University of Sheffield will help formally
the association plans to introduce a dedicated play
launch Playces, the new national spatial evidence
position on its Board and add a technical play role
platform developed to help local authorities,
within the SAPCA team. Severn says that reflects
planners and policymakers understand existing
SAPCA’s understanding that creating successful places
provision, identify inequalities and make better-
to play involves much more than construction alone.
informed investment decisions. That discussion will
“Play is not simply an activity, but an ecosystem
be followed by a session examining what accessible,
– one that depends on inclusive spaces, trained
inclusive and integrated play provision should
and valued workforces, supportive families,
actually look like, led by Becky Maddern of PiPA Play
evidence-based policy and communities that
and featuring an opening contribution from Harriet
understand the power of play,” she adds. “While
Waldegrave of the Children’s Commissioner’s Office.
we concentrate on the construction of places to play, we understand the importance of everyone in this room in making those places work.”
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
Children at the heart Perhaps most importantly, the people the entire conference is ultimately about will not simply be discussed from the stage. Children will be at the heart of proceedings throughout the National Play Conference, with some very special – and deliberately unannounced – appearances planned during the day. It is a fitting approach for a programme that repeatedly asks how policy and practice can better reflect children’s voice, choice, experiences and rights. For Severn, the objective is ultimately to turn a day of discussion into something longer lasting. “This conference is not only about listening – it is about connecting,” she says. “It is about strengthening the partnerships that make change possible. “If we are serious about transforming the landscape of play in the UK, we must work together – across sectors, across disciplines and across the country.” The final conference session asks delegates a deceptively straightforward question: what will each of us do differently to help restore a play-based childhood for all children? After a year in which play has moved further into
What to look out for Tom Hayes MP: What should England do next to strengthen national leadership on play? £18m Playground Fund: MHCLG outlines details on how investment will improve local play Playces launch: New national platform designed to support evidence-led decisions Inclusive play: What accessible, inclusive and integrated provision really looks like? Play workforce: How stronger standards and recognition will support a sustainable profession. Children’s voices: Special appearances throughout the day will keep children at the heart of proceedings.
parliamentary debate, government investment and national policy, Warwick could provide an important opportunity to begin answering it.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
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EVENT PREVIEW
NATIONAL PLAY CONFERENCE:
Creating the Conditions for Play The Slate, University of Warwick, Friday 9 October 2026 SUPPORTED BY: KOMPAN
MORNING PROGRAMME
11.00 – 11:45
● Hosts: Amber Ogunsanya-William & Oscar
Planning for play sufficiency: evidence, policy and investment
From 8:00
● Dr Michael Martin, Director of Urban Design &
Delegate registration, refreshments & exhibition
Planning, University of Sheffield & Dr Paul Brindley, Senior Lecturer in Landscape Architecture, School of
9:00 – 9:30
Geography & Planning, University of Sheffield
Welcome: Creating the Conditions for Play
● Gemma Hyde, Projects & Policy Manager,
● Dr Kathryn Severn, Chair, SAPCA
Town & Country Planning Association
● Play England Board representative [TBC]
● Maciek Kaszubowski, Head of Parks and Green Spaces,
Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG)
9:30 – 10:00
This panel will explore how national policy, planning,
Keynote: A national moment for play:
evidence and investment can work together to create more
what should England do next?
play-friendly communities. It will ask how we move from
● Tom Hayes MP, Chair, APPG on Play
isolated provision towards a more systematic approach
This keynote will set out the case for renewed
in which play is planned for, protected and invested in as
national leadership on children’s play, building on
essential infrastructure for childhood.
recent investment and policy progress and looking ahead to what England should do next.
11:45 – 12:15 Accessible, inclusive and integrated: what
10:00 – 10:30
does good play provision look like?
Creating the conditions for the right to play:
● Lead speaker: Becky Maddern, PiPA Play
Space, Time, Acceptance and Rights
● Opening contribution: Harriet Waldegrave, Deputy
● Dr Naomi Lott – Lecturer in Law, University of
Director for Policy, Children’s Commissioner’s Office
Reading and Associate Fellow, Bonavero Institute
The session will explore the three interconnected principles
of Human Rights, University of Oxford
now embedded within the £18 million Playground Fund:
Dr Lott will explore how children’s right to play can move
accessible, ensuring children and caregivers can get to, enter,
from recognition in principle to realisation in everyday life.
move through and use the space; inclusive, enabling children of different ages, abilities and ways of playing to participate
10:30 – 11.00
meaningfully together; and integrated, connecting play spaces
INTERVAL & EXHIBITION
to the wider neighbourhood, public realm and community.
12:15 – 12:30 Looking ahead: National Festival of Play 2027 ● Charlotte Barry, Event Curator & Creative
Producer HemingwayDesign ● Louise Blackwell, Creative Director, Creative Crawley
Introducing the emerging National Festival of Play, a major multi-arts celebration in Crawley exploring play as connection, placemaking and possibility.
12:30 – 13:30 LUNCH - Supported by JUTA A.S.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
AFTERNOON PROGRAMME ● Hosts: Amber Ogunsanya-William and Oscar
13:30 – 14:00 The future of the play workforce: recognition, standards and a stronger profession ● Sereena Keymatlian, Director, Haringey
Play Association and Playworker ● Dr Mike Wragg, Lecturer in Playwork, Leeds Beckett University ● Colin Huffen, Associate Director of
Standards & Regulation, CIMSPA The session will look ahead to the next phase of implementation, including the transition from the
15:10 – 15:30
updated National Occupational Standards (NOS) towards
INTERVAL & EXHIBITION
professional standards, stronger recognition and more sustainable workforce pathways, while protecting the
15:30 – 16:00
distinct identity, values and principles of playwork.
What can sport and coaching learn from play? Putting children’s voice, choice and journey first
14:00 – 14:15
● Heather Douglas – Head of Coaching &
Provocation: Who owns the street?
Policy, Play Their Way / UK Coaching
● Robert O.N. Torto, known as Rasta Rolla
Drawing on Play Their Way’s child-first coaching approach,
Drawing on lived experience and the visible occupation
this session will explore what the wider sport and coaching
of public space, Rasta Rolla will explore what happens
system can learn from play about voice, choice and journey.
when people use streets in unexpected, playful and expressive ways, and what this tells us about who
16:00 – 16:15
feels welcome, accepted and free to belong there.
Free to Play UK: investing in the conditions for play ● Patrick O’Kelly, Head of Partnerships & Insight,
14:15 – 15:00
& Sam Grimmett Batt – Director of Partnerships
PANEL: Play everywhere: creating the
& Insight UK Community Foundations
conditions for play across children’s lives
Free to Play UK is a new five-year, UK-wide initiative from
● Laura Walsh, Director of Play in Healthcare,
UK Community Foundations, backed by £9.3 million of initial
Starlight Children’s Foundation
investment and working through 20 community foundations.
● Tim Gill, independent researcher and advocate
Focused on outdoor, child-directed and adventurous
on childhood and the built environment
play, the programme is being designed as a systems-
● Chris Wright, Youth Sport Trust
change initiative rather than a traditional grants fund.
● Andy Robertson, Digital Play Practitioner,
This session will introduce the emerging programme and the
Family Gaming Database
learning shaping its development, including the importance of
● Dr Amanda Gummer, Chair, Association of Play Industries
playwork and workforce development, inclusion, children’s lived
This panel will explore what it takes to create the
experience, local capacity, spatial justice and culture change.
conditions for play across the different settings and experiences of children’s lives, from neighbourhoods and
16:15 – 16:30
public space to schools, healthcare, digital environments
From conference to action: what happens next?
and the places and products designed for play.
● Eugene Minogue, Play England & ● Richard Shaw, SAPCA
15.00 – 15.10
The closing session will draw together the key
Launch: University of Exeter Outdoor Play Research Centre
commitments and announcements from the day
● Dr Helen Dodd, Director of the Outdoor Play Research Centre
and look ahead to what happens next.
The Outdoor Play Research Centre brings together leading
The final challenge is simple: what will each
experts in the field and aims to deliver meaningful and
of us do differently to help restore a play-
lasting change for children by championing the importance
based childhood for all children?
of outdoor play and working in close partnership with key national organisations and charities.
All information is subject to change
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
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EVENT PREVIEW
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
Sessions will examine the future of the play workforce; how play can be supported across neighbourhoods, schools, healthcare and digital environments NATIONAL PLAY CONFERENCE 2026: SPEAKER INFORMATION
CHARLOTTE BARRY
HEATHER DOUGLAS
Event Curator & Creative
Head of Coaching &
Producer, HemingwayDesign
Policy, UK Coaching
Charlotte Barry is an Event
Heather Douglas is Head of Coaching
Curator and Creative Producer
& Policy at UK Coaching and has 30
a Play+England+logo+web+.png t
years’ experience in coaching development.
HemingwayDesign, working across projects focused
She leads UK Coaching’s contribution to Play Their Way,
on improving the lives of children, families and young
helping embed children’s voice, choice and journey
people. She holds Early Years Teacher Status and
within coaching practice, professional standards
was named Early Years Teacher of the Year for her
and policy across sport and physical activity.
research into childhood development and education.
TIM GILL LOUISE BLACKWELL
Independent Researcher and Advocate
Creative Director and Founder,
Tim Gill is an independent scholar,
Creative Crawley
writer and leading authority on
Louise Blackwell is Creative Director
children’s outdoor play and mobility.
and Founder of Creative Crawley and
A Design Council Ambassador, Churchill
Co-Director of LOOKOUT Brighton. An
Fellow and former Director of the Children’s Play Council,
experienced independent producer, she previously
he is the author of Urban Playground and No Fear and
co-founded and led the internationally renowned
led a UK-wide government review of children’s play.
producing organisation Fuel. She has also served on Arts Council England’s South East Area Council.
SAM GRIMMETT BATT Director of Partnerships & Insight,
DR PAUL BRINDLEY
UK Community Foundations
Senior Lecturer in Landscape
Sam Grimmett Batt is Director
Planning, University of Sheffield
of Partnerships & Insight at UK
Dr Paul Brindley is a Senior Lecturer
Community Foundations. With two decades’
in Landscape Planning at the University
experience in philanthropy and social change, he
of Sheffield, specialising in GIS, spatial
has led major national collaborations and developed
data and inequalities in access to greenspace. He co-
Free to Play UK, a £9.3 million initiative supporting
authored influential research mapping playground
adventurous outdoor play across 20 places.
provision in England and has helped develop the evidence base underpinning the new Playces platform.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
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EVENT PREVIEW
DR AMANDA GUMMER
SEREENA KEYMATLIAN
MD and Founder,
Director, Haringey Play Association
FUNdamentally Children
Sereena Keymatlian is Director
Dr Amanda Gummer is a leading
of Haringey Play Association and
authority on play and child
has worked in playwork since 1998.
development and MD and Founder
Combining organisational leadership
of Fundamentally Children. She has advised
with frontline practice at Somerford Grove Adventure
government, presented her Balanced Play Model
Playground, she is a strong advocate for adventure
at the European Parliament and developed
play, child-led activity, risk, autonomy and
accreditation frameworks adopted internationally.
protecting spaces where children can play freely.
TOM HAYES MP
DR NAOMI LOTT
Chair, All-Party Parliamentary
Lecturer in Law, University of Reading
Group on Play
Dr Naomi Lott is a leading scholar
Tom Hayes is Labour MP for
on children’s right to play and
Bournemouth East, elected in
author of the first legal monograph
July 2024, and Chair of the All-Party
dedicated to the subject. A Lecturer at the
Parliamentary Group on Play. He has used Parliament
University of Reading and Associate Fellow at Oxford’s
to raise the profile of playgrounds and children’s
Bonavero Institute of Human Rights, she developed
right to play, including leading parliamentary
the Space, Time, Acceptance and Rights framework.
debates on playground provision and investment.
BECKY MADDERN COLIN HUFFEN
Director, PiPA Play
Associate Director for Policy, CIMSPA
Becky Maddern is Director of PiPA
Colin Huffen is Associate Director for
Play and a leading campaigner for
Policy at CIMSPA, with experience
accessible and inclusive playgrounds.
spanning sport psychology, leisure and
Drawing on lived experience as the parent
education. His work focuses on developing
of a child with profound disabilities, she has spent eight
policies, procedures and professional standards that
years challenging conventional approaches to playground
enable the sport and physical activity workforce
design and promoting genuinely inclusive play spaces.
to engage participants safely while supporting the continued professionalisation of the sector.
DR MICHAEL MARTIN Director of Urban Design,
GEMMA HYDE
University of Sheffield
Projects and Policy Manager, Town
Dr Michael Martin is Director of
and Country Planning Association
Urban Design at the University of
Gemma Hyde leads work on healthy
Sheffield and an expert on child-friendly
placemaking at the Town and Country
cities and play. He co-authored influential research
Planning Association. Her work examines how
into play inequalities in England and has helped
planning and the built environment can support health
translate that evidence into national policy, government
and wellbeing, with particular emphasis on embedding
investment and the development of Playces.
children’s rights, needs and voices into Local Plans and creating conditions for play and independence.
EUGENE MINOGUE Executive Director, Play England Eugene Minogue is Executive Director of Play England and has worked across play and sport for more than 25 years, including roles in local government, Sport England and as CEO of Parkour UK. He has also served on the Play Safety Forum and British Standards Committee for playground equipment.
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
PATRICK O’KELLY
ROBERT O.N. TORTO – RASTA ROLLA
Head of Partnerships & Insight,
Civil Engineer, Active Travel
UK Community Foundations
& Play Campaigner
Patrick O’Kelly leads funding
Robert O.N. Torto, known as Rasta Rolla,
partnerships at UK Community
is a civil engineer and active travel and
Foundations and is leading the Free to Play
play campaigner. With 20 years’ experience
UK initiative. With extensive experience in funding, impact
in road safety and cycle design, he has implemented more
and social investment, he previously oversaw delivery of
School Streets than any other individual in the UK and now
more than £20 million through the Youth Investment Fund.
campaigns to reclaim streets for children and communities.
AMBER OGUNSANYA-WILLIAM
HARRIET WALDEGRAVE
Inclusive Play Consultant
Deputy Director for Policy, Office
Amber Ogunsanya-William is an
of the Children’s Commissioner
Inclusive Play Consultant, NSPCC
Harriet Waldegrave is Deputy
Champion of Childhood and award-
Director for Policy at the Office of the
winning playworker. A prominent advocate
Children’s Commissioner, the statutory
for child-led, rights-based play, she has hosted the
body responsible for promoting and protecting
National Play Strategy launch in Parliament and,
children’s rights. She has previously worked in children’s
in 2026, became the first playworker to deliver
policy for think tanks and charities and spent two
play activities inside 10 Downing Street.
years working as a child protection social worker.
ANDY ROBERTSON
LAURA WALSH
Author and Founder, Family
Director of Play in
Gaming Database
Healthcare, Starlight
Andy Robertson is an author, journalist
Laura Walsh is Director of Play
and expert on children, video games
in Healthcare at Starlight, working
and play. Founder of the Family Gaming
to position play as an essential part
Database and author of Taming Gaming, his work
of children’s health and wellbeing. A qualified and
explores digital play and helps families understand how
registered health play specialist, she was previously
video games can form a valuable part of childhood.
Head of Play at Great Ormond Street Hospital following a long career in playwork and community health.
DR KATHRYN SEVERN Chair, SAPCA
DR MIKE WRAGG
Dr Kathryn Severn is Chair of SAPCA
Senior Lecturer in Playwork,
and Managing Director of Labosport
Leeds Beckett University
UK. A specialist in sports surfaces, she
Dr Mike Wragg is Senior Lecturer
holds a PhD from Loughborough University and has
in Playwork at Leeds Beckett
more than 15 years’ industry experience spanning
University and Chair of Play Bradford.
research, testing, certification, procurement and
A former play development officer and Head of Play
product development, including senior roles with
and Youth Services, his research explores playwork,
Labosport, the Football Foundation and GreenFields.
adventure playgrounds and the application of playwork approaches across different stages of life.
RICHARD SHAW Chief Executive, SAPCA
CHRIS WRIGHT
Richard Shaw is Chief Executive of
Head of Health & Wellbeing,
SAPCA, the UK trade association
Youth Sport Trust
for sports and play construction. He
Chris Wright is Head of Health &
leads the organisation’s work to raise
Wellbeing at the Youth Sport Trust.
standards, support its membership and strengthen
He led the £11.4 million Department of
the quality of sports and play facilities, while
Health-funded Change4Life Sports Clubs programme
representing the sector on issues including investment,
and now leads work addressing physical inactivity
planning, sustainability and facility development.
and health inequalities, including the design and implementation of the Well School Movement.
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
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PEOPLE
CREATING MEANINGFUL PLAY KOMPAN UK Managing Director, Stuart Pettit, has spent more than 20 years in the play industry. He speaks to PlayNation about how research plays a big role in KOMPAN’s products and shares his views on how the play sector has developed in the past two decades Could you take readers through your career journey – the path to MD at KOMPAN UK?
great deal about the many different aspects
I first started in the industry back in 2001 as a
changes and I was approached about making a
designer for a small local company. The industry
return. The vision for the future was explained to
was very different then: perhaps less professionally
me, and it was too good an opportunity to pass up.
structured and, especially within smaller companies,
This is where I worked under and alongside some
very much a case of learning on the job. This opened
amazing talent, which saw us grow from £6–7m
up avenues to learn all aspects of the sector, and
to £45m before I took over as Managing Director.
it was an era in which many long-standing play
involved in running an entire organisation. In 2017, KOMPAN had gone through some major
When I returned to KOMPAN, I did so with the
professionals began their careers; many of them
mindset that the most enjoyment I get from
still provide expertise across the industry today.
the industry comes from selling and designing
During that period, I was exposed to and involved in all aspects of the industry before falling in love with the selling side of the business. This led
playgrounds. I therefore stepped back and returned to my favourite role: Area Sales Manager. During my second stint as an Area Sales
me to leave and sell full-time for an American
Manager at KOMPAN, in 2022, I became a
manufacturer, which in 2008 was a difficult
Regional Sales Manager under Steve Sylvester,
proposition, as the American market was big,
working alongside Steve Williams and Debbie
bright and considered garish for the UK market.
Chambers. This started a whole new phase of sales
However, it really taught me how to sell.
development for me and became the foundation
After two years, I was headhunted by
on which my management journey was built.
KOMPAN and joined in January 2010. I then
In that role, I watched Debbie become Head of
spent four years taking design-led sales into
Sales and then onto Managing Director of our
my area, which proved very successful and led
Australian office. This is testament not only to
to some amazing projects at attractions such as
the management team I was part of, but also to
Chessington World of Adventures and Legoland.
the global opportunities that KOMPAN offers.
In 2014, I wanted to push myself further
With Debbie treading her own very successful
and took a role managing a smaller company.
path, this gave me the opportunity to step into the
This was a challenge, especially as it had its
Head of Sales role before taking over as Managing
own manufacturing arm, but it taught me a
Director in April 2025, when Steve Sylvester retired.
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Research is at the core of everything KOMPAN does and once our employees and customers go through that journey we achieve some truly amazing play spaces What attracted you to the play sector? Or was it a happy coincidence that you ended up in it?
Manager, which I accepted. I dived in at the deep end and started my career in the industry.
Like most people, even today, I did not realise it
How would you describe KOMPAN?
was an industry back then, despite there being a
KOMPAN is research-focused, with users immersed
play company just one mile up the road. At the
in the research, development and testing of our
time, I was working in a design studio doing web
products. This is coupled with a global reach –
and graphic design for construction companies.
we have a presence in more than 30 countries
However, I have always enjoyed the social side of
– that allows us to share, utilise and expand our
life, so I also worked weekend shifts in my local
learnings across borders. Research is at the core
pub for the extra money and the social aspect.
of everything we do and, once our employees
The landlord went on holiday once, and I
and customers go through that journey, we
took annual leave from the design studio to
achieve some truly amazing play spaces.
run the pub for a couple of weeks. During that time, the directors of the local company came in for lunch a few times and regularly discussed the designs they were producing. One conversation led to another. I was actually
Could you tell us more about that research – how you do it and how it translates into equipment and products? KOMPAN has two research-led specialist units:
trying to secure work for the design studio, but
the KOMPAN Play Institute and the KOMPAN
it led to them offering me the role of Design
Fitness Institute. The Play Institute studies what
PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
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PEOPLE
We believe play should be accessible wherever possible motivates children to play, stay and return, and how play can support physical, cognitive, social-emotional and creative development. It tests and documents play designs with children of different ages and abilities, publishes research, and advises on playground and city planning. This translates directly into equipment designed around age-appropriate challenge, varied play types and inclusive participation, for example, play structures combining climbing, balancing, social spaces and activity panels rather than offering only one type of activity. The Fitness Institute applies sports science, user testing and partnerships with universities and fitness experts to create outdoor fitness equipment that is enjoyable, social and capable of delivering meaningful exercise. Its work focuses particularly on ergonomics, resistance and usability across different body sizes and fitness levels. For example, KOMPAN’s cross trainer was refined through multiple user-test iterations and laboratory evaluation of oxygen
Which sectors do you focus on in the UK?
uptake, muscle activity and perceived exertion.
KOMPAN works across all local government
The Stay Fit range is another clear example: it
sectors, from main authorities through to
was developed using research into fall prevention
parish councils and community groups, as
and effective exercise for older adults and
well as the education, leisure and construction
rehabilitation users. In short, both institutes
industries. A strength of KOMPAN is also
help ensure KOMPAN equipment is not simply
finding opportunities in niche markets and
attractive or robust, but grounded in how people
expanding the thought and delivery of play
actually play, move, develop and keep active.
spaces beyond the normal channels. We believe play should be accessible wherever possible.
sculptor Tom Lindhardt and co-founder Hans
What plans does KOMPAN UK have for the next 1-2 years?
Mogens Fenne-Frederiksen. From its early days as
The education sector is a primary focus for our
creating play sculptures for children, the company
development and growth. We are combining
has developed into one of the global market
research-led design with practical school
leaders within the playground and outdoor fitness
requirements: increasing activity, supporting
industry. Today, KOMPAN develops, produces and
wellbeing and inclusion, enabling supervision, and
markets an extensive range of playgrounds, play-
creating age-appropriate challenge from early
sport and outdoor fitness equipment that covers
years through to teenagers. This is all driven by
all age groups. KOMPAN is present in 94 countries
our research into how play and physical activity
Worldwide, employs approx. 2,300 employees
deliver wider benefits within educational settings.
KOMPAN was founded in 1970 in Denmark by
globally and has sales companies in 25 countries.
For new products, the reintroduction of electronic play, such as our Orbit system,
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
combines physical activity with digital, social and sensory-rich games. Designed as a social focal point, OrbitPlay brings friends, families and bystanders together around active, shared play. Products such as OrbitPlay bridge gaps between ages and abilities, as well as between sport and fitness, which feeds into KOMPAN CommonGround. KOMPAN CommonGround is a connected,
multi-generational outdoor destination that brings play, fitness and social spaces together in a playground, outdoor fitness area and seating
How has the play sector changed in the 20+ years that you have worked in it?
zone as separate facilities, it uses pathways,
The more professional approach adopted by
landscaping, surfacing and shared social areas
companies across the sector really transformed
to help children, teenagers, adults and families
the industry into a stronger and more credible
move, meet and spend longer outdoors together.
sector within local government during the early
Children can play independently while parents
days of my career, which was a real positive.
one cohesive environment. Rather than treating
remain nearby, teenagers have reasons to stay
Procurement has changed significantly over
active, and adults can exercise, relax or socialise.
this time, mostly for the better, as it has helped
We position CommonGround as a complete
drive up budgets for larger projects as well as
project solution – combining equipment, amenities,
the quality of the play areas being delivered by
design expertise and installation through one
all companies. The best example is inclusivity
point of contact – to create welcoming, visible and
and accessibility, which have been improving but
safe community spaces that encourage activity,
still have some way to go. This is still very much
connection and everyday use across generations.
led by the customer’s brief and specification.
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PEOPLE
The current state is a mixed bag. On one hand we have bigger projects and bigger budgets for those projects but fewer playgrounds overall At the same time, throughout my entire time in the industry, we have seen the removal of hundreds, if not thousands, of playgrounds and play spaces across the country, ultimately making play less accessible and less available. This is troubling to everyone working in the play industry. One thing that makes me proud, not only to be at KOMPAN but also to be part of this industry, is that so many play professionals are passionate and devoted to achieving more and better play and fitness provision. They are true play advocates, not simply focused on the commercial aspect.
What is the single most positive change you’ve witnessed in the sector?
The other negative is the way social value
The increase in budgets and the size of projects,
is increasingly focused on within tenders
alongside a stronger focus on inclusivity,
and procurement. In many cases, it can be
has brought us closer to what is achieved
scored as more important than inclusivity and
in other countries around the world. Being
accessibility, even though play and outdoor
exposed to some of the project sizes and
fitness are, in themselves, a form of social
scopes delivered globally in the earlier days
value. Regardless of how it is approached, social
actually created a sadness about the level
value requirements can remove budget from
of play the UK was offering. It has improved
achieving even better play and fitness provision
significantly, but there is still a way to go.
in order to fund much smaller social value
Are there any negative changes that you’ve witnessed?
offerings. Outdoor play and fitness areas are already among the best social value outcomes we can offer. To put this into perspective, large
There are two main negatives I have seen over
construction projects and developments often
the years. The first, which is a challenge for
have to include social benefits, which can include
everyone in the play industry and for children’s
playgrounds. We have delivered hundreds of
health, is that playtime has become more
playgrounds on the basis of “giving back” to
controlled and supervised from a parental point
the community for construction companies.
of view. It was always a hot discussion in my
from free play and risk, so I approached play very
How would you describe the current “state of play” when it comes to the UK play sector?
differently from my wife. This overprotection
The current state is a mixed bag. On one hand,
and “bubble wrapping” of children can have
we have bigger projects and bigger budgets
significant effects on their development,
for those projects, but fewer playgrounds
health, risk assessment and resilience.
overall. As much as I welcome this level of
house when my children were younger. I knew that so much positive child development comes
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PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
investment, the growth in the industry is
offering as much as possible while minimising
actually coming from sectors outside local
long-term maintenance requirements. While this
government, which is a grave concern.
is a practical response to the market, it can also
A major challenge is that initial capital budgets may be larger, but the revenue side, which
simplify and, in some cases, reduce the richness and value of the play experience being delivered.
pays for the maintenance and upkeep of play
Given the current state of play, the need
areas, has dwindled to almost nothing. This has
for a stronger central government focus on
had a major impact on product development
outdoor, free-to-access play, sport and fitness
and the style of play areas being delivered.
has never been more important. The All-Party
With a lack of maintenance budgets and
Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Play is arguably
personnel, customer specifications and briefs
the most important recent development from a
have had to reflect this, leading to a stronger
policy and funding perspective, because it creates
focus on durability, reduced maintenance, simpler
a permanent cross-party mechanism within
inspection regimes and long-term operational
Parliament to champion the importance of play.
cost. While this is understandable, it can limit
Historically, the play sector has often been
creativity, material choice and the richness of
viewed as a “nice to have” rather than as essential
play value that could otherwise be delivered.
community infrastructure. That is why the APPG is
Even product development has been affected by
so important. However, it needs to go further still,
the lack of revenue and maintenance investment.
helping to secure greater recognition, stronger
Many companies, including KOMPAN, have created
policy alignment and more sustainable funding
value-engineered ranges to maximise the play
for play, sport and fitness spaces across the UK.
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PEOPLE
Playing Wild Amber Ogunsanya-William was part of the team that created the Play Wild exhibition at Winchester Science Centre. She outlines how the project’s splashing chalk streams and giggling fossils are helping families reconnect through play
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omething extraordinary is happening at Winchester Science Centre and no, it’s not just the fact that I’ve spent months wading through water channels, prototyping mud kitchens, and whispering encouragement to a giant mosasaur skeleton. It’s Play Wild: three brandnew outdoor exhibits where science, nature and joyful, messy, meaningful play collide. As Play Consultant for this incredible project, I’ve had the privilege of partnering with the Wonderseekers team to help shape, embed and activate play across the Chalk Stream Water Play exhibit, a flagship installation inspired entirely by the ecology, geology and shimmering magic of chalk streams. And the excitement hasn’t gone unnoticed. BBC South came down to capture the joy, the splashing, the squeals and the wonder of this rare ecosystem brought to life. When the cameras rolled, the Chalk Stream absolutely performed. If chalk streams could wink, ours would have.
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PEOPLE
A space that’s transforming families Play Wild has become a place where grandparents crouch, parents climb, children lead and everyone forgets they were ever supposed to “just watch”. One splash, one giggle and one discovery at a time.
We shaped an exhibit where curiosity leads, children take charge and adults rediscover their inner explorer
I’VE SEEN:
Behind the scenes
● Grandads negotiating water
While families splash and explore, there’s a
flow like tiny hydrologists. ● Toddlers discovering fossils with the
seriousness of seasoned palaeontologists.
whole layer of invisible play-alchemy humming underneath and that’s where I come in. As Play Consultant I’ve been quietly weaving purposeful,
● Parents crawling through Dormouse
science rich play into the Chalk Stream exhibit:
Den tunnels, emerging with twigs in
crafting embedded activities that feel like part
their hair and pride in their eyes.
of the landscape, building a joyful toolkit for
● Entire families cheering as water finally
flows exactly where they wanted it to go.
the Inspirer team and leading training sessions full of “aha!” moments and the occasional glue and glitter chuckle. Through co-creation with families, the young steering group, playful
It’s connection through curiosity. It’s
prototyping and a whole lot of chalk-stream
science through play. It’s joy through mud,
love, we shaped an exhibit where curiosity leads,
water, fossils and woodland magic.
children take charge and adults rediscover their
This space isn’t just transformative it’s
inner explorer. It’s the kind of behind the scenes
restorative. It’s giving families permission to
magic you don’t see but you absolutely feel in
slow down, explore, laugh, and learn together.
every splash, giggle and moment of discovery.
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PEOPLE
THE THREE OUTDOOR EXHIBITS BRINGING NATURE TO LIFE
1
DINO DIG Children dig, pan, investigate and clamber across the enormous skeleton of a giant mosasaur. Real fossils, interactive zones and collaborative challenges bring the prehistoric chalk sea roaring back to life. Expect squeals. Expect sandy socks. Expect tiny palaeontologists shouting “I found a shark tooth!” with the confidence of someone who’s just discovered fire.
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2
THE CHALK STREAM Ah yes. The star of the BBC South feature. The diva of the chalk landscape. The shimmering, splashing, utterly irresistible Chalk Stream. Families experiment with water flow, redirect currents, build channels and discover the wildlife that depends on this rare ecosystem from otters to mayflies to the kingfisher who has become my unofficial mascot. This space is science you can splash in. Science you can shape. Science you can giggle through.
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PEOPLE
3
DORMOUSE DEN A woodland world designed for little explorers to hide, climb and discover the secret life of the hazel dormouse. It’s gentle, magical and full of tiny surprises. Children become dormouse detectives. Adults become honorary woodland creatures. Everyone becomes part of the story.
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Connecting people My personal favourite spot is The Kingfisher’s Kitchen (or, if you prefer, the mud kitchen
In their own words
a creativity engine. A sensory laboratory. A
Emily Mace, Director of Science Engagement, Winchester Science Centre
social hub where children mix, mould, pour
PlayWild showed us that science and play are natural
and experiment with natural materials. It’s
partners. By immersing children and families in
messy. It’s marvellous. It’s meaningful.
scientific collections through playful experiences,
of dreams). It is more than a play zone. It’s
And it’s where I’ve seen some of the most beautiful moments of connection: siblings
we created opportunities for curiosity, exploration and discovery that helped
collaborating, parents joining in, grandparents
make the natural world more accessible,
offering “expert stirring advice” and children
meaningful and memorable.
discovering that mud is basically nature’s glitter.
A chalky, splashy, fossil-filled invitation
Over this summer we saw that children are given permission to play with scientific ideas, collections and
Play Wild is more than a set of outdoor exhibits.
stories, they don’t just learn facts
It’s a movement that celebrates curiosity, protects
about the natural world, they build
local habitats and empowers children to become
a deep connect with it. PlayWild
scientists, engineers, palaeontologists and nature
showed how science and play
champions. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this
together can spark wonder,
team and this vision. Winchester Science Centre
deepen understanding and inspire
has created something truly special – a space
care for the world around us.
where nature, science and play come together in the most joyful, inclusive and imaginative way!
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POLICY
What happens when a school takes play seriously? Reepham Primary School in Norfolk treats playtime as an important part of the school day, with thought given to the environment, resources and staff support around it. Now the school community is working together to make sure its physical play spaces reflect that approach
A
t Reepham Primary School, playtime is not viewed simply as the gap between lessons. For the school, it is an important part of children’s day. It’s one of
Children first That approach is not about making play more adult-led. In many ways, it is the opposite.
the times when they have the freedom to lead for
The aim is to create the right conditions for
themselves, make decisions, negotiate friendships,
children to be able to lead their own play: enough
invent games, solve problems and work things out
opportunity for movement and imagination, places to
without every moment being directed by an adult.
explore and create, appropriate challenge, resources
That thinking has led the school to look more closely
that can be used in different ways, and adults who
at its own playtimes and ask a fairly simple question:
understand when to support and when to stand back.
if play is important, are we giving it the same thought
The next challenge for Reepham is the physical
and attention that we give to other areas of school life?
environment. The immediate priority is a significant
Headteacher Caroline Henry explains: “At
transformation of the school’s Early Years outdoor
Reepham, we think about playtime with the
area, alongside continued improvements to play
same level of care and consideration that we
opportunities and resources across the wider school.
give to what happens in the classroom.
The aim is not simply to install more equipment.
“We wouldn’t expect great teaching to happen
The school wants to create environments that give
without planning, reflection, the right resources
children more scope to move, imagine, explore, take
and investment in our staff, and playtime should
appropriate risks and direct their own play. As a state-
be no different. When you take the time to look
funded primary school, however, finding the money for
at how children are using the space, what is
that level of improvement is difficult when the school
working, where the challenges are, and give staff
budget is already meeting so many competing needs.
the training and confidence to support play well,
This is where Friends of Reepham Primary
you begin to see really positive changes unfold.
School, the school’s fundraising charity, has
“Playtime shouldn’t be an afterthought.
stepped in. Rather than scaling back the ambition,
When it is given proper thought and value, the
the charity is looking at how it can raise a level
impact can be seen in children’s confidence,
of funding that would be difficult to achieve
relationships, behaviour and wellbeing.”
through traditional school fundraising alone.
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Our role as Friends of Reepham Primary School is to help find the funding that allows the environment to catch up with that ambition Spreading the word
About Reepham Primary School
On 10 September, it staged The Playmakers’ Gala
Reepham Primary School is a state-funded primary
at The Thursford Collection, bringing together
school in Norfolk. Friends of Reepham Primary
the school community, businesses and people
School is the school’s registered fundraising
working in and around play for an evening
charity. Registered Charity (1052928)
that is both a fundraiser and an opportunity to talk about why this work matters. Eugene Minogue, Executive Director of Play
needed goes beyond what you could realistically
England, spoke at the Gala, placing the work taking
raise through the usual school events, you have to
place at Reepham within the wider national picture
think differently. The Gala is one way of bringing a
for children’s play and Play England’s 10-year It All
much wider group of people around the project.
Starts with Play! strategy. He was joined by Therese
“What has been really encouraging is seeing
Hoyle, founder of Positive Playtimes, whose work
businesses and people outside the immediate
with schools focuses on improving the quality of
school community understand what we’re
playtimes and helping staff understand how better
trying to do and want to be part of it.”
play provision can affect the wider school day.
There is no suggestion that Reepham has found
The evening also included a hosted conversation
a model every school should simply copy.
bringing together perspectives from sport, education
What it does show is what can begin to
and child development. For Friends of Reepham
happen when a school decides that play is worth
Primary School, the Gala was ultimately a practical
thinking about properly, looks honestly at what
response to the gap between what the school wants
children currently experience, and gives itself
to provide and what existing funding allows.
permission to be ambitious about improving it.
Gala organiser Rose Levien said: “We’re very
For a small Norfolk primary school, that has started
fortunate to have a school that genuinely values play.
with culture, staff and the everyday experience
Our role as Friends of Reepham Primary School is to
of playtime. The next step is making sure the
help find the funding that allows the environment
spaces themselves are able to support it. More
to catch up with that ambition. When the amount
information: www.reephamfriends.org/playmakers
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PLACES
IMAGES: IAN GREENLAND AND WITHLOVE.STUDIO
WHY SERIOUS PLAY?
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Wayne Hemingway and Louise Blackwell explain why they are turning Crawley into the UK’s largest open-air playground
f
or too long, we’ve boxed play into tiny corners of our lives. We’ve told ourselves a boring lie: children play, adults work. We build playgrounds for the kids, shopping centres for the consumers, and
transit routes for the commuters, too often treating our public spaces as purely practical corridors to get from A to B. But what if we stopped treating play as an optional childhood luxury and started seeing it for what it actually is? A catalyst for radical creativity, human connection and civic joy. Exactly 80 years after it was designated a New Town, Crawley is prepared to challenge the status quo once again. Creative Crawley and Hemingway Design are launching the National Festival of Play, a massive, boundary-pushing celebration that will shake up playgrounds that are fenced in and inject raw creativity, movement, and performance directly into our streets, parks and concrete squares. This isn’t about setting up a few swing sets in the town centre. It’s a total reimagining of what a town can be and should be.
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PLACES
The town that unfinished the future Disrupting the ordinary is built into Crawley’s DNA. When it was designed as a New Town in 1947, the visionaries behind it weren’t just pouring concrete; they were trying to consciously shape the everyday joy of its residents. By the 1950s, Crawley became a fearless pioneer of the adventure playground movement. Instead of installing rigid, prefabricated iron roundabouts, the town gave kids raw materials: scrap wood, tools, shovels and wheelbarrows. The instructions? Figure it out. They built, they experimented, they took risks, and they knocked things down just to start again. The magic lay in the fact that the environment was completely unfinished. It was a living, breathing lab for self-determination. Eight decades later, we need that exact same unfinished energy.
Reclaiming space from the screen While modern headlines obsess over youth screen time, they miss the much more pressing question: what are we actually giving them to look at when they look up? Young people don’t want to be exiled to hidden, dark corners on the edge of town. They want to be right in the thick of it, rubbing shoulders with the rest of society. Look at skateboarding. Towns across the UK spend thousands installing hostile architecture – metal studs, chopped benches, and defensive barriers – just to keep skaters out of sight. But working alongside young people has proven that when you embrace skate culture (now a hugely popular Olympic sport), you don’t get vandalism; you get a generation that takes fierce, proud ownership of its public square. Curiosity and imagination aren’t qualities we outgrow. Adults are suffocated by the endless expectation to be productive, purposeful, and quiet. A town that actively leaves room for play is a town that leaves room for spontaneous human connection.
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A town that actively leaves room for play is a town that leaves room for spontaneous human connection PLAYNATION.UK ISSUE 5 2026
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PLACES
A festival for the 100% The National Festival of Play is taking the blueprint of major UK cultural movements and scaling it for everyone. Just like Salford celebrates our hardearned free time with We Invented the Weekend, or Blackburn champions industrial legacy with The National Festival of Making, Crawley will use play to unlock the town’s brilliant global heritage. Crawley’s vibrant, international communities are ready to flood the streets with games,
Young people don’t want to be exiled to hidden, dark corners on the edge of town
sports, songs and street subcultures from all over the world. It’s a cross-generational playground where a massive game of catch,
National Festival of Play
an improvised urban skate park, or a giant
The town of Crawley is championing children’s
communal board game can break down barriers
right to play through the National Festival of
faster than any boardroom meeting ever could.
Play, a multi-arts festival reimagining the town
Civic pride isn’t built on infrastructure alone. It’s
as a place where play shapes how they live,
built on those electric, unscripted moments that
learn, work and connect. The festival will build
make a place feel truly alive. The National Festival
on Crawley’s legacy as a pioneer in adventure
of Play is our declaration that the town belongs to
play. Created in partnership with Creative
the people who inhabit it. The street is our canvas.
Crawley (creativecrawley.com), it will expand on
The park is our arena. The town centre is our stage.
existing work by Hemingway Design, celebrating
The plan is to launch the inaugural National
regional heritage and global significance:
Festival of Play around the International Day
l We Invented the Weekend (Salford):
of Play in June. All we need now is for an army
https://www.weinventedtheweekend.com/
of play practitioners, institutions and brands to
l The National Festival of Making (Blackburn):
come and help us deliver something special.
https://festivalofmaking.co.uk/
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Bring landscapes to life with sculptural play Natural timber forms designed to complement their surroundings and invite exploration.
Our Services UK manufacturer since 1876 Full maintenance & inspection service Free site visit & design Spares stocked at our UK factory Extensive guarantees Bespoke play structures
Wicksteed.co.uk 01536 517028 sales@wicksteed.co.uk
BRIEFING
Play spaces with purpose
(& water)
Writing for PlayNation, Jeremy Sutherland, Managing Director of Ustigate Waterplay, says that water play deserves a permanent place in the UK’s public spaces
A
cross the UK, those of us working in leisure, local government and the built environment are being asked to do more with less. Budgets are under pressure, expectations are rising, and every investment
must demonstrate long-term value. Within that context, outdoor play and water play in particular can sometimes be viewed as a discretionary extra. I would strongly argue the opposite. Water play is not simply about fun. When designed
and delivered well, it is a powerful tool for community wellbeing, inclusive play, place-making and social connection. At Ustigate Waterplay, we have spent decades working alongside local authorities, schools and leisure providers, and one lesson is consistent: the most successful water play spaces are those that are designed with purpose, not just aesthetics.
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Designing with purpose, not just aesthetics At the heart of Ustigate Waterplay’s philosophy is a simple belief: successful water play environments must serve people first. This belief influences every stage of a project, from early concept development through to installation and long-term operation. Rather than offering standardised, one-size-fitsall solutions, Ustigate works closely with clients to understand local demographics, site constraints and community objectives. A splash pad in a coastal town has different needs to one in an urban park or a school playground, and Ustigate’s design process
From feature to framework
reflects this nuance. Equipment layouts are carefully
Historically, water play was often bolted onto
considered to encourage interaction, flow and
wider projects as a feature or something
inclusivity, allowing children of different ages and
colourful to attract attention. Today, attitudes
abilities to play side-by-side rather than apart.
are changing. Clients are increasingly asking
This design-led approach ensures that water
deeper questions: Who is this space for? How
play spaces do more than entertain; they invite
accessible is it? How will it age? How does it
confidence, encourage movement and foster
support health, inclusion and community use?
shared experiences. Whether it is incorporating
This shift mirrors the way we approach projects
inclusive ground-level features, sensory play
at Ustigate. We do not start with products; we
elements or quiet zones for neurodiverse
start with people. Understanding how a space will
users, Ustigate consistently demonstrates that
be used, who it needs to serve and what success
accessibility is not a feature to be added later,
looks like ten or fifteen years down the line
but a principle to be embedded from the outset.
fundamentally changes the design conversation.
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BRIEFING
has a very different role to one in a school
Experience matters especially after opening day
playground, leisure centre or coastal town. In each
Delivering water play environments is complex.
case, thoughtful layout, zoning and equipment
Beyond creative design, projects demand technical
selection can encourage interaction, movement
understanding, regulatory knowledge and reliable
and confidence without overwhelming users
project management. Many clients are navigating
or excluding those with additional needs.
these processes for the first time, often within
A splash pad in an urban park, for example,
Inclusivity should be the starting point
tight programmes and under significant scrutiny. The real test of a water play area is how
Inclusive play is no longer a buzzword; it is an
it performs over time. Longevity, ease of
expectation. Yet in practice, it can still be sidelined
maintenance and operational efficiency are just
or treated as an upgrade rather than a foundation.
as important as first impressions, particularly
For me, inclusive design should never be optional.
where public funding is involved. A well-
At Ustigate, we place inclusivity at the centre of
designed water play space should remain safe,
every design discussion. Ground-level water features,
robust and enjoyable for years, not seasons.
clear circulation routes, accessible surfacing and sensory-rich elements allow children of different
Sustainability beyond the soundbite
ages and abilities to play together, rather than
Sustainability is often framed narrowly around
separately. The aim is always to create environments
water consumption, but in reality, it is much
that feel intuitive and welcoming, not environments
broader. Modern water play systems can be
that require explanation or assistance to enjoy.
designed to recirculate water efficiently, minimise
This approach aligns closely with public-sector
waste and operate responsibly, but sustainability
responsibilities around equality and accessibility,
also means creating assets that last.
but more importantly, it reflects how communities
Material quality, equipment durability and
actually function. When play spaces are genuinely
considered layouts all play a role in reducing long-
inclusive, they become shared social environments,
term maintenance demands and replacement
benefiting families, carers and children alike.
costs. In our experience, investing in smart design early on is one of the most effective ways to support environmental and financial sustainability over the life of a scheme.
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Inclusive, accessible water play that promotes sensory exploration, active play, and wellbeing for all
DESIGN * SUPPLY * INSTALLATION * AFTERCARE * WATER PLAY FAVOURITES FOR ALL AGES AND ABILITIES
T: 01322 424445 E: enquiries@ustigate.co.uk W: www.ustigatewaterplay.co.uk
DISCOVER
BRIEFING
Strengthening places, not just sites
sensory engagement and social interaction. Yet
Some of the most rewarding projects we have
the success of a water play area is determined not
delivered are those where water play has helped
by novelty alone, but by how well it is designed,
transform underused or overlooked spaces. In
delivered and supported over its lifetime.
parks, town centres, and school grounds, welldesigned water play areas become natural
Looking forward
meeting points, places where communities
As our public spaces continue to evolve,
gather, linger and reconnect with the outdoors.
expectations of play infrastructure will only
These spaces contribute to wider health
grow. Communities are rightly demanding
and wellbeing agendas, promoting physical
environments that are inclusive, sustainable and
activity, supporting mental wellbeing and
meaningful. Clients, meanwhile, need partners
encouraging families to spend time outside
who can balance imagination with delivery.
together. Their value is not always easily
At Ustigate Waterplay, our focus remains on
captured in spreadsheets, but it is visible every
designing water play that genuinely adds value to
time a previously quiet space comes to life.
places, to people and to communities. Play, when
More than play
done well, is not a luxury. It is an essential part of healthy, resilient and connected public spaces.
At a time when local authorities, schools and leisure providers are under increasing pressure to deliver meaningful community value with limited budgets, investment decisions must work
JEREMY SUTHERLAND
harder than ever before. Outdoor spaces are
With decades of experience in the
no longer viewed simply as recreational add-
aquatic and leisure sectors, Jeremy
ons; they are vital infrastructure for health,
is a strong advocate for inclusive,
wellbeing, social connection and inclusive play.
sustainable and well-designed
Water play has always held a unique position
play spaces that deliver long-
in community environments. It cuts across age,
term value to communities.
ability and background, offering spontaneous joy,
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