Our report on the Wild Play consultation at Capel’s Mill
During April and May this year, Stroud Valleys Project carried out a public consultation on proposals to install natural-themed play equipment at Capel’s Mill in Stroud’s town centre.
This area, a former landfill site, has been carefully transformed into a rich wildlife habitat and a popular spot for people to come for lunchbreaks. There are not many places for children to play in the area, and Capel’s Mill was suggested as a site that might help to fill this gap.
On two different dates, SVP staff asked people visiting the site to share their views by completing a questionnaire. This was also made available to members of the wider public via an online form. We also carried out activities with children from the local primary school and spoke with representatives of groups who use the site or are interested in how it might be used.
In total...
Over 100 people responded to our survey, either using the online survey function or by talking to us when we visited the site.
Around 60 children between the ages of 5 and 11 took part in an onsite consultation afternoon.
Five local interest groups were consulted.
The reactions to the provision of play equipment at Capel’s Mill were largely positive, particularly when we explained the principles behind the design plans. Most respondents stated that play equipment would result in them using the site more frequently (50%) or that it would make no difference to their usage (37%).
However, some respondents were concerned about the disturbance that might result from the installation of play equipment, both to people and to wildlife.
Our report concluded that:
Any play equipment/play areas should:
Take into account the area’s wildlife, industrial heritage and overall surroundings
Protect the area's habitats and biodiversity
Not lose sight of the original objectives of the site’s restoration
Ensure the area is safe, particularly because of the nearby road and deep water
Make additional provision to deal with littering, dog fouling and potential anti-social behaviour/vandalism
Be accessible and inclusive
The equipment itself should be:
Aimed mainly at junior and pre-school aged children, although this should not be too rigidly enforced
Use wood/trees and planting and incorporate recycled materials
Use natural surfaces that also make it easy for people with different access needs to use the area
Comprise several small, low-impact areas, rather than a concentrated play area in one place
SVP would like to thank everyone that took the time to give us their views on the proposals. We really appreciated your contributions. The report can be read in full here.
The report will now be considered by Stroud District Council, before we agree on any next steps.