We designed and project managed the construction of a new playground for the Reception Class at this primary school in Kent. The old and tired playground was completely ripped out as a mature birch tree had caused damage to the existing tarmac and was presenting a trip hazard to the children; there was also the proximity of the school building to consider and any damage that might occur through tree root action. So, after gaining local authority planning consent to fell this other beautiful birch we specified a special tree planting pit [with a root barrier] and a new tree that would serve its primary purpose of giving shade to the children in summer but would also form the focal point to the design and also not cause future problem by root action on the new tarmac or building. A canopy was requested by the school for this otherwise rather exposed part of the building - children can now learn and play outdoors even if it raining or is it too hot and sunny out in the open, and parents can now queue to pick up their children sheltered from the elements. An existing rather ugly but essential set of manhole covers were incorporated into a raised bed to form an enclosed children’s garden – now planted with apple trees and flowers and vegetables by staff and children. The manholes are barely noticeable now. Finally a covered sand box finished off the project along with playground markings [hopscotch, an alphabet etc] and paintwork throughout in school colours.

The entire project was funded by the Claremont Parent Teacher Association and we managed the whole project from design and specification, through planning permission and building regulations, contract preparation and tendering, works monitoring and final sign-off. We also sourced the main shade tree to ensure that exactly the right species, size and type of tree arrived ready to be planted in autumn.