Building active communities: South Molton's play and outdoor gym area

A girl sliding down a small slide from a play climbing structure themed like a castle with stag wood decoration

Revitalising South Molton’s Central Park

South Molton’s Central Park in North Devon is a vital green space at the heart of a growing rural market town. The park, which also houses a skate park, swimming pool, children’s nursery and community centre, serves as a popular hub for play and leisure. Residents raised concerns about the deteriorating state of the existing equipment and the lack of facilities for younger children. In response, South Molton Town Council sought multi-activity fixed equipment designed specifically for children aged 1-5, with features for climbing, crawling and role play, ensuring maximum vandal and tamper resistance.

Additionally, to provide older children and adults with a challenging and engaging alternative, the council requested the inclusion of a calisthenics gym.

A girl sliding down a small slide from a play climbing structure themed like a castle with stag wood decoration
A girl sliding down a small slide from a play climbing structure themed like a castle with stag wood decoration

A bespoke design for a unique community

Under 5s Area

The design prioritised creating a safe and engaging space for young children, encouraging both physical and cognitive development. To achieve this, we designed play equipment that is low to the ground, reducing injury risk and enhancing accessibility for small children. The play space includes features like a main play tower and timber tangle, which offer opportunities for adventure, fantasy play and balance activities.

To foster exploration and parallel play, a nature exploration table was included, featuring a granite bowl, magnification post, material collection station and chute. This encourages children to interact with the natural surroundings, gathering materials and learning through play. A basket swing and a double-width slide were also added, allowing carers and older siblings to engage with younger children in play.

Teenage Area

For older children and teenagers, the design included a bespoke calisthenics gym, tailored to fit within the natural environment of Central Park. Sensitive to the green space, eco-friendly grass mats were used around the equipment. The Robinia Gym, which we designed and manufactured, includes pull-up bars, dip bars, monkey rings and more, offering a variety of challenges for different fitness levels. In response to community feedback, we added a solid oak picnic bench and a large inclusive basket swing set, providing more seating and play options.

 

Design rooted in local character

The design of the playground draws inspiration from South Molton’s rural character and local architecture. The main tower mimics the South Pannier Market’s architecture, featuring archways, rustication and balustrade details that provide multiple play opportunities. Wild wood cladding with hidden viewing ports and a den space under the tower create a sense of being in the woods.

A sail shade canopy and a chicken weathervane were included to give a nod to the area’s rural life. The entire playground is enclosed in a bespoke oak and chestnut fence with a self-closing gate, blending seamlessly with the surrounding natural environment.

Community engagement

South Molton Town Council conducted extensive research with the community before the tender, which provided invaluable insights into local needs and preferences. This research played a crucial role in shaping our design decisions, ensuring the playground met the expectations and desires of the community, and delivered the best possible play experience for all users.

“The park is fantastic and we’re having lots of great feedback from the community”. says Emily Abbott, Community Developer at North Devon Council.

We understand the unique needs of communities like South Molton and are committed to delivering bespoke solutions that enhance local green spaces. If you’re a trust or council looking to transform your outdoor areas with a durable, custom-designed playground, we’d love to help.

Come and look around some of our bespoke playgrounds

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Bringing community together through play

Bringing community together through play
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Multi-sensory play in Gosford Forest Park

Multi-sensory play in Gosford Forest Park
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Integrating play into heritage woodland

Integrating play into heritage woodland
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Create a playground that’s uniquely yours.

We’re always happy to answer any questions you may have about how we work, or offer advice on how best to successfully deliver your project.