Play Area Open Day 2010 - Courtesy of Eia Films
With thanks to Cornwall Council and DCSF Playbuilder a fund was raised for £61,700 to go towards improving the Ayr Field Play Area. The play park was a culmination of 18 months hard work by the local community to create a play space. Ayr Field is an open green space which had a small and tired children’s ‘play area’. Our community vision was to enlarge the play space and re-develop the play area to improve play in the local area.
Ayr Field is an important ‘breathing place’ within the tight urban grain of St Ives. Despite the beautiful coastal setting of St Ives many local children and adults have limited access to green open space near their homes. What we wanted was a space to challenge physical play for children, a play area incorporating natural features and play surface to create a visual interest and excitement. The theme of the play area was inspired by a tree house as we have no trees in the area, thereby adding height and interest to the scheme.
Play Area Open Day 2010 - Courtesy of Senara Wilson
Extensive community consultation with local children and residents to ascertain their aspirations for the play area has been carried out. We wanted to keep it natural looking and resilient. As painted surfaces were impervious to the sea air we chose a hard wearing wood, that was sourced for its durable long lasting properties.
The official opening was celebrated by the local community with cutting of the ribbon. Local groups and bands played throughout the afternoon, and playtime events were available for the children. The play area has been hailed a great success.
