Nursery World - Creating playgrounds that stand the test of time

While public playgrounds are declining sharply, they continue to be much needed by children. Barry Leahy makes the case for an environmentally friendly approach to building them which supports both inclusion and long-term usability.

'Sustainable timber and stainless steel age gracefully and retain their look and feel for many years,' says Barry Leahy.

Think about the playgrounds we enjoyed as children. Concrete flooring, metal bars and dangerous equipment didn’t stop us from having fun, though they were definitely something of a health and safety hazard!

Today’s playgrounds are built with far more consideration. They are safer, much more sustainable and are a rare and dedicated place for active, technology-free play. Outdoor play spaces, like public parks, help develop children’s social skills, forge friendships, and hone important physical attributes like gross motor skills.

However, the number of public playgrounds in the UK is declining at an alarming rate, with many children unable to access the facilities they need. By making sustainability a cornerstone when designing parks, we ensure children have access to the places they need and foster environmental consciousness. Outdoor play teaches children the value of spending time in nature – young minds are taught to be inquisitive, mud and all! Using natural materials in playground design provides a tactile, sensory experience, and teaches children about the world around them.

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