Bourton Park

The nature themed play area is aimed specifically at 2–7-year-olds and is designed to allow much better access to and around the site and to be as inclusive as possible – aiming to challenge, excite and inspire as well as encourage children of all abilities to play together. The design fits seamlessly within the environment of Bourton Park, with natural shapes and bright colours of the play structures that have been specifically chosen to symbolise Buckingham’s local flora and fauna. For example, otter and kingfisher aluminium rubbing posts, oak, poplar and beech leaf stones and Bourton Park’s bespoke ‘wildlife ticket office’ play hatch.

The site design offers several inclusive and interesting features including:

• Huge multi-person boat springer, set within a colourful blue wet pour stream system. This is reflective of the park’s riverbanks and references the old path of the Buckingham Canal which ran through the site.
• Large swing set including a Tango Swing Seat that allows parents or older children to swing face to face along with a toddler and it joins the more traditional flat and cradle seats.
• Low level ‘pond tree house’ themed multiplay units, made from recycled materials and designed specifically for younger children.
• Multisensory acoustic play equipment including a Rain wheel, Bongo tree and drum panels. 
• Wildlife Discovery Hut and Otter’s Driftwood Den provide a break away space for the children to interact, role play or have some space away from the noisy activities.
• Toadstool sculptures, aluminium rubbing posts and leaf steppingstones depicting tree and animal species commonly found in Bourton Park.
• More seating, picnic tables and grassy areas for blankets.

The Town Council selected HAGS to bring this project to life, which is a reflection of the community and Town Council’s vision to provide a play spaces where inclusivity and imagination are key.

Download Bourton Park case study

Location

Bucks, United Kingdom

Year Completed

2023

Project Value

£120,000