Brambling Close Play Area, Mid Suffolk District Council

Mid Suffolk District Council (MSDC) sought to refurbish Brambling Close, a well-used neighbourhood play area in Stowmarket, as the existing equipment had reached the end of its lifespan. Their goal was to replace key items with durable, inclusive, and sustainable alternatives while maximising play value. Having successfully delivered several recent play areas, we were a natural fit for this project. The new play area needed to provide a well-rounded play experience for children aged 1-12, with a focus on the 5-12 range. It needed to promote inclusivity, accessibility, and a balance of physical, sensory, and social play opportunities. Key features in the brief were inclusive and sensory play items which would enhance motor skills and proprioception, benefiting all children. Ground level elements like a Twister game encourage shared, sensory-rich opportunities, while vibrant surfacing enhances sensory activities. Within our design proposal for older children we included items to push physical play challenges. The Matterhorn climbing and sliding unit builds strength and coordination, while the Flexus enhances balance and motor skills. Social play would be encouraged through a double springer and a three-way seesaw, catering to multiple age groups. Traditional swings and gymnastic bars provide older children with social and physical outlets. The final design delivered an engaging, high-value play area that supports children’s development through active, inclusive, and sensory-rich play. The local community now have a vibrant and welcoming hub encouraging greater interaction between children of different ages and abilities, strengthening social bonds and creating a more inclusive space. There has been an increased foot traffic and engagement within the residential area, with families and friends gathering more frequently. The Brambling Close play area has become a valued asset, supporting child development and encouraging a stronger sense of community.