Promenade Park, Maldon District Council

The ever popular Promenade Park in Maldon, Essex gets up to a hundred thousand visitors per year. After 15 years, their much loved ship in Promenade Park Valley had finally come to the end of its life. Maldon District Council were looking for a new and unique solution and something different that would better their previous ship.

They wanted to make any new equipment coastal themed, as inclusive as possible within their budget, and it needed to appeal to all ages and abilities. It needed to cater for as many children as possible.

The new bespoke ship provides a ‘wow’ centrepiece, packed with play activities that would excite young visitors from a distance as they arrived at the park. Featuring a tall lighthouse that really makes a bold statement. Various slides, large access stairs and a track ride to add to its appeal. There are numerous climbing nets to challenge all levels of users, plus areas to hang out and socialise together.

Carefully placed around the boat are an inclusive roundabout, an ocean themed group seesaw, dolphin and sea lion springers, as well as a jumper trampoline and an imposing 3d shark!

Adjacent to this playground, their Sensory Garden play equipment including climbing frames and old and tired play elements had finally come to the end of their life. Maldon District Council wanted to replace them and create a fully surfaced and inclusive play area for all abilities and sensory needs.

They wanted to continue the coastal theme with any new equipment, being as inclusive as possible, including ramps for wheelchair access. With this being a quieter area in the park it naturally lent itself to be an area for its younger visitors (0-8 years).

The new inclusive four tower play unit is at the heart of the design creating four spaces that invites children in with its multitude of play challenges, corkscrew fireman’s pole, plus low level hammocks to hang out and socialise together. The ramp takes the children to a series of appealing tactile activities and interactive play panels. Both playgrounds also include muted colours and calming tones throughout to cater for those with autism.

A three bay swing includes a variety of seats for all ages and abilities. Ocean themed graphics have also been added, including a mermaid, fish, crabs, starfish, a nautical compass, as well as a lighthouse hopscotch. Parents can also watch their children play safely from either the grassed areas or nearby picnic tables.