No plans to provide adult facilities in playgrounds

THE council has “no plans” to develop any additional facilities in playgrounds for adults and caregivers beyond seating infrastructure.

At an area committee meeting on Tuesday, Cllr Lyn Hagin Meade (GP) asked the council if they would investigate and invest in facilities for caregivers who bring children to playgrounds.

In response, the council said it had completed a natural playspace programme around the county “which has won accolades for its inclusive nature” and there are no plans to develop facilities for adults in them.

“These spaces are purposely designed for children, and adults are only permitted to use SDCC play areas for the purpose of supervising the children in their care,” stated the council.

“Safety is a primary consideration in the design of playgrounds and it is important that any equipment placed in playgrounds is designed for use by children.

“The EU Standard for this equipment in BS:EN 1176.

“It is not recommended to have adult exercise equipment or other items not complying with the relevant play equipment safety standard within or close to playgrounds as children will be attracted to play on it.

“Seating is provided in playgrounds to facilitate caregivers, but it is not planned to include any additional facilities for adults in playgrounds.”