Coastal towns in the UK, such as Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole on the south coast, are popular seaside destinations for holidaymakers and tourists. For families on their seaside outings, playgrounds are essential for their children, providing a healthy, fun and inexpensive afternoon out.
In the early 2000s, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP) purchased a large amount of Jacksons Fencing’s Playtime timber playground fencing, installing it in many playparks across the coastline.
Fencing in playgrounds today
Over 20 years later, the fencing is still standing and in perfect condition in all of the specified parks today, even after rebranding and equipment replacements inside the boundary. However, this example of durability is woefully rare, as incorrect fencing is often installed by local authorities and councils. Sadly, the result is higher costs in the long run, as councils have to undertake emergency repairs after fencing has been vandalised or fallen into disrepair.
Winton Recreation Ground
Playground fencing at Winton Recreation Ground still firmly stands today. It has created a safe area for children to play and stops dogs from entering the grounds. Since being installed, it has shown no signs of damage, rot or insect attack.
Christchurch Splash Park- Now ‘Quomps Splash Park’
The popular splash park in Christchurch Quay was renovated in 2019 however the Jacksons Playtime fencing remained. This fencing was chosen and ever since it has been installed it has provided a safe and fun environment for the original park established over a decade ago and the newly refurbished area today. Despite being in close proximity to water, the fencing has not been damaged by rot.
Alum Chine Play Park
Alum Chine is a fully enclosed play park that includes water play, multi-play, see-saws, swings, roundabouts, a wooden pirate ship and a slide. The area is situated in a coastal environment which can be subject to extreme and unpredictable weather conditions.
Harewood Crescent Play Area
Jacksons’ Playtime fencing blends into the natural environment surrounding this park making it more aesthetically pleasing. Importantly, the fencing doesn’t disrupt the attractive view of the parkland beyond the play area, ensuring a more pleasant experience for the families and children using the swings.
Holdenhurst Play Area
This play area has a vast amount of free space for children to wander and play. Surrounding the perimeter is Jacksons’ Playtime timber fencing which creates a safe, welcoming area for those using it and it blends with the trees and nearby greenery.
Kings Park Play Area
Kings Park is a vivid play area consisting of water play, climbing frames and monkey bars. The perimeter fencing made of natural timber generates a safe, natural environment which allows the colourful play equipment to stand out against it.
Local Authority Investment
These case studies have demonstrated how robust Jacksons Fencing’s products are, with RoSPA (Royal Society for Prevention of Accidents) recommending that local authorities should invest in playground fencing that meets BS EN 1176, the British Standard which sets out the requirements for safe playground equipment. In doing so, this will be cost effective over the years to come, due to the quality of materials and treatment process.
Peter Jackson, Managing Director, Jacksons Fencing, commented: “It’s great to see that Jacksons’ playground fencing which was installed during these projects so many years ago is still in great condition for all to safely enjoy the playgrounds.
“It was a real honour to be involved in this crucial project which aimed to secure the playgrounds from any external danger and vandalism. Whilst also preventing harm to children from unsafe fencing. We hope that with the perimeter solutions we’ve installed, the families and children can continue to use and appreciate the communal areas without any disruption now, and well into the future.”
Find out more about Jacksons Fencing’s Playground Fencing solutions here.