Reading Borough Council wanted to replace their existing play area on Mapledurham Playing Fields, which was very tired and as a result, underused. It was a priority that high quality, inclusive equipment was provided so that children of all ages and abilities can play together.
The new playground is part of the Council’s larger improvement work to the playing fields to improve facilities for all local residents and park users. It sits alongside the Department for Education’s work to build The Heights Primary School at this same location.
The old play area has been replaced with a larger new dynamic playground, with improved accessibility. The new equipment has been designed for toddlers and children up to the age of twelve and provides a range of facilities for children of all abilities.
At the centre of the new play area, the imposing Mission Foxfire unit caters to juniors, testing their strength and agility. Designed around a small circular traverse, it offers physical play including climbing, balancing and traversing with banister rails, nets, climbing wall and stepping poles.
For toddlers and younger children the Inclusive Pull Up unit incorporates three challenging levels of activity with a drag ramp, climbing pole, slide and binoculars offering physical and social stimulation.
Further inclusive equipment includes springies, in friendly and familiar bee and ladybird designs, and a scooter roundabout. Designed to accept a centrally positioned wheelchair, the Inclusive Scooter roundabout is also fitted with a seat and deck mounted scooter, enabling children to propel the roundabout with ease.
Wipe-out, a balancing board for children age 8-15 years, and a fast moving Quad Flyer aimed at older children and teenagers, complete the dynamic and stimulating new play area.
“The new play area is looking fabulous and I’m sure local children will really enjoy the new improved facilities. We know the old playground was very tired and as a result, little used. We anticipate the new playground will prove very popular and well used, given its location near the new school and the work to improve the park’s footpath network.”
Councillor Deborah Edwards, Chair of the Mapledurham Playing Fields Trustees Sub Committee
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