Decision details

BANES parks play assets need to be replaced regularly in order to protect public safety and to maintain the play offer for our community. The lifespan of the average play feature within a play area is approximately 10-15 years, and as such there is a requirement to maintain the current level of offer by replacing end of life equipment.

The programme is based on outcomes of regular play inspections across the BANES parks play area portfolio recorded on PSSLive, as well as feedback received from the community via Fix My Streets and requests communicated through Members.

To fully approve £350k provisional budget funded by Corporate Supported Borrowing for delivery of the Parks Play Equipment Replacement Programme 2026-26

Option 1
Do Nothing - Allow existing play assets to fall in to a state of disrepair and be removed. This was not considered a viable option as it is counter to the Council Priorities to:
1) Deliver clean safe and vibrant neighbourhoods for local residents
2) Deliver access to play equipment in local neighbourhoods for our children and young people
3) Deliver options for healthy lives & support positive mental health by encouraging physical activity through play and social interaction in an outdoors environment

Option 2
Complete replacement/improvement of all play equipment assets - Replace and refurbish BANES play area portfolio with new and improved offering. This was not considered a viable option as would not maximise the benefits from existing assets that are not at end of life. In addition, there are not the people or financial resources to deliver such a large scheme.

Option 3
Maintain and Replace - Maintain the current play assets with a programme of replacement when existing equipment becomes unsafe or life expired, in some cases replacing a full play area. This option was chosen as it allows for ongoing replacement and refurbishment of BANES play assets with more significant work to be planned by working with the Green Infrastructure and Open Spaces programmes.