Meadow Park Splash Pad - Borehamwood Hertsmere Borough Council

Main Features:

• Concrete Surface
• 23 individual water play features
• In-Ground features 
• Future upgrades available
• Water Feature Display

Existing Site

The existing site consisted of a grass section in between a brand new playground and existing MUGA.

Design

Working with the council, we provided the initial design solution for adding a brand new splashpad next to a newly improved play area. The Splash was successful in tendering for the scheme. Our in-ground features developed for this park create an exciting water display when all are activated. The recirculation system allows us to add additional features and create huge water effects. Children love running, jumping, and interacting with each feature.

The surrounding area was coated in artificial grass for longevity, while also maintaining the style of the local play area. We laid concrete underneath the pathway to ensure accessibility all year round, providing a smooth transition on and off the splashpad. To make the pathway visible to all, we coated it in blue artificial grass to stand out. This project was requested to have a concrete finish, and the surface creates a natural colouring, blending seamlessly into the park.

The surrounding area designed for picnic seating also featured variable levels and mounds. This allows parents to sit and safely see across the splashpad, ensuring good visibility. For added aesthetic, we surrounded the concrete with palisades, offering another opportunity for seating and enjoying the splashpad.

We introduced larger anchors on some of the features to allow for future upgrades if required. If the council decides to enhance the area, we can include a Twin Tipper without the need for any ground works. This would add further play value while creating a 'new' feeling in the zone, encouraging previous users to re-visit the park.

Here is the animated walkthrough we produced for the design proposal:
https://youtu.be/tQUQsFdT09o

Construction Phase

The construction phase of the project began in May 2022, with part of the existing area prepared and new main electrical, water, and waste connections installed to the required locations.

We stripped the entire area by 400mm to create sufficient depth for new pipe runs from the plantroom to the splashpad and for a new suction return tank. During excavation, the soil we expected to re-use on site for creative mounds turned out to be mostly heavy clay, unsuitable for our needs. As a result, we had to remove this soil and bring in additional Type 1 load stone to create the mounding. The plant room base was also deepened to accommodate the soil conditions.

The splashpad features a low log wall surround, bedded into a concrete trough that forms the edging of the splashpad, with the finished surface consisting of 150mm of C35 reinforced concrete. The surface was ground upon completion to ensure a smooth, non-slip surface.

At the start of the project, we worked closely with the client to form a new access around the existing pavilion before work began. This also involved installing a new duct to enable the power supply to be routed to the plantroom from a different location.

Post-Completion & Safety Inspection

Upon completion, we conducted a thorough independent play inspection to identify and address any potential safety risks and ensure the area conforms to EN 1176/77 Playground standards.