Staple Tye Splash Pad - Harlow Harlow Council

Main Features:

• Wetpour Surface
• 47 individual water play features
• Modern features 
• Super Soaker

Existing Site

The existing site consisted of a couple of old unused paddling pools that had already served their purpose.

Design

The task was set to design and build into an obscure shape and multiple-levelled paddling pool. We accomplished this by utilizing the existing draining solution, where the top level drains through the wall down into the bottom area. This allowed us to create a paddling zone on the top level while also enabling it to drain to a dry deck overnight. This added value by allowing less confident users to get involved, while still preserving the heritage of the paddling pool.

We included the brand-new Super Soaker tipping bucket. This massive tipping bucket and tipping board create a huge splash. Tipping buckets of any kind are a must in all splashpads, as the tension builds an exciting, playful atmosphere while users sit and wait for the dreaded tip!

All the features fit the modern theme, with shapes, curves, and colours to complement the overall design. Some features have a ‘bead blast’ finish, while others are powder-coated. Our range of features, from inground features to the Super Soaker, provides play value for all ages.

Construction Phase

The construction phase of the project began in April 2022, with part of the existing paddling pool being removed and new main electrical, water, and waste connections installed at the required locations.

Trenches were dug around the existing pad, and 53 anchors were installed across the splashpad in the agreed locations, along with all the relevant pipework and electrical connections.

Excavations took place for the two main below-ground tanks. During excavation, an old concrete sewer pipe was discovered that had not been identified in the pre-construction information. This triggered a design change that led to the relocation of the tanks, and the pipework was adapted to suit.

Once the area was excavated to the correct level and new location, the tanks were moved into position and concreted in place. The relocation of the tanks involved additional concrete and a re-routing of the pipework to the plantroom. The relocation had an approximate 2-week impact on the programme due to the extra excavation and pipework adjustments.

The pool base consisted of 200mm of reinforced concrete, which was broken out in the shallow areas and removed from the site. The deeper areas were retained, and where possible, our anchors were fixed to the concrete base. For larger elements, such as the Super Soaker, we excavated isolated deeper foundation pads.

The entire area was covered with 150mm of C35 reinforced concrete with falls to ensure water returned to the main balance tanks as quickly as possible for water treatment.

A 15mm wetpour rubber crumb was used as the finished surface, laid to include themed graphics. This created a bright, playful area with a non-slip, non-abrasive finish.

The two new DDA-compliant ramps with handrails were constructed to enable access to the lower splashpad for users of all ages and abilities.

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.