Play Area Strategy 2003-2013

The purpose of this strategy is to set out the current provision of children's play equipment within the Solihull Borough. The aim is to identify any gaps in the provision, pressures on the existing facilities, any future trends and the best way forwards.

The Council has provided children's play equipment in Solihull for many years. Most of these facilities can be found in the Borough's parks and open spaces. In some cases the Council has inherited these facilities through changes in local government boundaries. In others they are the direct result of the Council's investment.

Pressures on the future maintenance of these facilities come from a number of quarters and are increasing. In recent years British & European Safety Standards have required investment to be made in safety surfacing and led to the removal of items of equipment. The Council has tried to replace these items with suitable alternatives.

The importance that people attach today to a safe environment is recognised. Small children (toddlers) are likely to be accompanied by adults when using play areas. However, in the case of older children (juniors), part of the process of growing up is likely to require an element of freedom. Thus, in the case of junior equipment, it is now considered important that these sites are visible from surrounding public places. Not all sites within the Borough satisfy this criteria. Some play areas suffer increasing problems of anti-social behaviour and other crimes.

Contact Details

For more information please contact the Council's Contact Centre

Telephone: 0121 704 8000

Email: connectcc@solihull.gov.uk