Kids create a Monsta in Bridgend
Where do you go if you want to design some of the best
playground equipment in the world? You go to the real experts: the
kids themselves.
That’s exactly what leading playground manufacturer
Wicksteed Playscapes did when it developed its new Monsta range
– and discovered the toughest clients of all are the children
themselves.
The first-ever Monsta playpark for 2-16-year-olds has been
installed at Foxfields in Bridgend and the unit, known as the
Maxx-Zone, has already been tested by local children, who
weren’t shy in making their views known. “We wanted a
multi-tiered vertical platform system that was imposing,
challenging and aesthetically different,” says Wicksteed
sales director Stuart Wetherell. “The skeleton system was
developed with the kids, but it was when the prototype was built
that it really took off. The kids from the local Play Team are
responsible for a large part of the design – it was what they
wanted.”
So when the young designers wanted a “chill out
area”, Wicksteed delivered – converting the second
platform space on the equipment.
A spinner would also make a great exit and entrance point, said
the little experts, and Wicksteed didn’t argue – making
sure four children could use the spinner at once in response to
“we want more of us on it” feedback.
The Play Team were also keen for the bannister slide to be
altered from a gentile 30 degrees to a more exciting 45 degrees
– and when asked the question “can we climb inside the
tower” Wicksteed was happy to make sure the answer was
“yes”.
Stuart added: “It’s fantastic working with the kids,
their enthusiasm and creativity knows no bounds.”
Learn more about Wicksteed visit www.wicksteed.co.uk