Creating Safe Community Playground Surfacing with Rubber Mulch

Community play areas play a crucial role in promoting physical activity, creativity, and social interaction among children. Ensuring the safety and comfort of young adventurers is paramount, which is why the Balivanich Community Play Park took a significant step by choosing to install green rubber mulch around their play area. In this case study, we will explore the process and benefits of this innovative installation, highlighting the positive impact it has had on the community and its children.

The Balivanich Community Play Park, located on the Isle of Benbecula, recognised the need for significant improvements to ensure user safety. The existing play area surface was outdated and required constant maintenance due to material migration. After careful consideration and consultation with the community, the decision was made to install rubber mulch as a safety-focused, sustainable, and low-maintenance solution.

The community group chose PH Landscape Contracting Ltd, a trusted local landscaping company, to install the rubber mulch. The installation process began with the removal of the existing surface and meticulous groundwork preparation, including creating a sub-base and secure edge for the mulch. The rubber mulch was mixed with resin binder using a forced action mixer and then applied using a spazzle before the surface was hand-troweled to create a seamless finish, ensuring a safe and visually appealing play area.

The installation of green rubber mulch brought numerous benefits to the Balivanich Community Play Park. Firstly, it significantly reduced the risk of fall-related injuries, providing a cushioned surface that absorbs impact. The accessibility of the play area was also improved, allowing anyone with mobility challenges to enjoy the space comfortably. The mulch's resistance to weather elements ensured year-round usage and reduced the need for frequent maintenance. Additionally, the non-slip surface provided stability for running, jumping, and playing, promoting a safe and enjoyable experience for children.

The rejuvenation of the play area with rubber mulch received an overwhelmingly positive response from residents, parents, and children. The commitment to safety and the peace of mind it provided were highly appreciated. The transformed space became a hub of excitement and enjoyment, fostering community cohesion and providing a vibrant environment for children to thrive.

Balivanich Community Play Park: "We are very happy with our new rubber mulch surfacing. Thank you to Peter Holland of P.H Landscape Contracting Ltd for the installation. Job well done."

Peter Holland - P.H Landscape Contracting Ltd: "It is great to see the park back in use. I look forward to taking the little man there. We were very happy to get the opportunity to do the project and our experience with GGL Products was very positive and helpful."

The installation of green rubber mulch at the Balivanich Community Play Park has successfully transformed an outdated and high-maintenance play area into a safe, inclusive, and visually appealing environment. This case study emphasises the importance of investing in sustainable and safety-focused solutions to enhance community spaces across the UK. The collaboration between the community group and PH Landscape Contracting showcases the positive impact of such projects, creating a lasting legacy for the benefit of local children and families.