LOCATION:
Godinton housing estate, Ashford

DATE:
2015

WHAT WE DID:
The aim was to improve this children’s play area, which was overgrown, vandalised and surrounded by off-putting high fences. We started by doing some consultation with children from Godinton Primary School and local residents. It was clear there was a need for a rejuvenated play area. Ideas from the consultation were taken forward in designs for a new woodland play area that would be sympathetic to and feel part of the woodland. Equipment was made using natural materials as far as possible. Installation of play equipment and erection of a knee-rail using local chestnut, was carried out by contractors. We wanted local children to be encouraged to explore the wood, so KSCP volunteers improved paths. KCC employees on a volunteer day spread woodchip in the play area to a safe depth.

BENEFITS:
The play area will greatly benefit local children and families – it is an important facility that will be used by people all over the estate. Because it is largely made of natural materials, it is much more in keeping with the woodland and has much less impact on the landscape that the old play area. The scheme won the 2016 National Veolia Environment Trust ‘Transforming Play’ award.

WHO WE WORKED WITH:
Veolia Environment Trust (funding), Loudon Wood Residents Group (funding), Loudon Wood Management Company, Godinton Primary School, KCC (volunteers).

FURTHER INFORMATION:
Loundon Wood Play and Explore leaflet