Surrey Square Park Playground

Update following initial consultation:

Thank you to everyone who took part in the survey and shared your views. Your feedback is invaluable in shaping the future of the park.

What’s Next

The feedback will be reviewed with the architect and project team. It will inform the next stage of the project, including design considerations and implementation planning.

Initial updates are expected by late January.

Summary of Consultation Results

We received 25 responses through the consultation hub, and many participants also attended the drop-in sessions at Surrey Square Primary School.

Overall, the reaction was largely positive: 64% of respondents rated the design as “Like” or “Strongly like,” while 12% were neutral and 24% disliked it. The average rating was around 3.5 out of 5.

Many respondents welcomed the variety of new play features and appreciated the council’s investment in improving the park.

Play Equipment

People liked the adventurous and engaging play features proposed for different ages. These were seen as fun, challenging, and a big improvement on the current playground.

Including:

• Zip wire
• Trampoline
• Swings
• Slide
• Climbing elements
• Rotating bowl
• Roller bowl

Feedback highlighted the need to ensure inclusive play provision for toddlers and under-5s, with seating and shade for carers.

Green Space and Planting

(Protecting nature and adding greenery was a strong theme.

Suggestions included:

• Retain meadow banks where possible
• Add nature-friendly planting and habitats for year-round greenery
• Increase shade and tree cover near play and seating areas

Layout and Design

Several comments focused on practical design considerations:

• Address anti-social behaviour and noise by maintaining sight lines and thoughtful seating placement
• Consider re-siting gym equipment to reduce disturbance
• Review skate/roller bowl size and location; use planting to separate noisy and quiet areas
• Improve access and boundaries at Peter Martin Memorial Garden while keeping its contemplative feel

Safety and Facilities

Feedback highlighted the need for safety and comfort:

• Ensure play areas are dog-free with barriers and signage
• Use layered paths and planting to slow e-bikes
• Review CCTV coverage; no new lighting proposed
• Specify robust, low-maintenance materials
• Consider feasibility of toilets or signposting to nearby facilities

What Happens Next

All responses will be analysed to identify key themes and priorities. These insights will guide discussions with the architect and project team to ensure the design reflects community input.