Ickford Village: A Multi-Use Play and Fitness Space for a Growing Community

From Vision to Reality in Ickford

 

The Vision

With the expansion of Ickford Village due to two new housing developments, Ickford Parish Council identified the opportunity to re-develop the playing fields to better serve the growing community. Their goal was to create a multi-use play and fitness area, encouraging outdoor activity for all age groups and abilities. Over 18 months of planning, the council worked closely with Caloo and the County Council to bring their vision to life.

 

The Solution

Caloo delivered a comprehensive redevelopment project, replacing outdated equipment and introducing new play, fitness, and sports facilities.

Key installations included:

• New aluminium play units in natural green and brown tones, offering:
  • Low-level multi-play structures for preschoolers.
  • A challenging climbing unit for juniors.
  • Wet-pour surfacing for wheelchair accessibility.
• Timber adventure trail equipment, adding an exploratory play experience.
• Refurbished tarmac sports area, with a new surface and sports markings to revitalise existing play spaces.
• Upgraded zip wire, with wet-pour surfacing for enhanced safety and usability.
• All-weather accessible track, using SUDS Bond permeable paving, designed to:
  • Support jogging, cycling, and wheelchair accessibility.
  • Ensure sustainability and year-round usability.
  • Provide convenient access by linking to all playing field entry points.
• Outdoor fitness equipment, installed at four stations along the track, each featuring two pieces of gym equipment to encourage community exercise.

Overcoming Challenges

The project faced difficult weather conditions, with heavy rainfall and saturated ground impacting progress. Despite these challenges, the Caloo team adapted to the conditions, ensuring the project was completed on time and to a high standard.

 

The Impact

The newly transformed space has been a resounding success, creating a thriving recreational hub for the entire community.

“We now have an educational and physical play and exercise facility being enjoyed by all abilities, from newborns to the most senior residents. It’s great to see the new equipment bringing so many people in the village together.”

The client was delighted with the outcome, praising Caloo’s expertise:

“Caloo have been an excellent partner for our playground upgrade project, from initial discussions through to installation and post-implementation follow-up. They were helpful from the outset, quick to interpret our objectives, and diligent in ensuring the final design met our needs within budget. Thanks, Caloo!”
– Councillor, Ickford Parish Council

With its enhanced play and fitness facilities, Ickford’s revitalised playing fields will serve residents of all ages for years to come.