LOCATION: Hatfield, Hertfordshire
CLIENT: Hatfield Town Council
INVOLVEMENT: Consultation, design and contract management
Context and brief
Acacia Street was a recreational ground that had a number of problems with anti-social behaviour, so Hatfield Town Council approached Groundwork to create a design solution to deter this behaviour, making the area more accessible to families.
Design statement & Process
Groundwork held a consultation on the site to gain the views of the local community, and also visited the local youth club to speak to the young people and their parents, to ensure a representative opinion.
It was clear from the consultation that families didn’t feel secure using the space, and children weren’t aware of the park due to their family’s apprehension.
So following the consultation, Groundwork developed a design that move the play area to somewhere users could be seen clearly. The design retained some existing equipment but added a zip wire, trampoline, climbing unit, and surf board. A turf maze and outdoor gym was also added. Finally, the path network was improved to make the area more accessible. Groundwork managed the contractors to implement an area that the local community can enjoy and feel safe.
Work in progress
