We are embarking on a project to improve the playground and toilets at Gostrey Meadow.

What’s happened so far

In the summer, we carried out our first consultation with parents/carers and young people because we want to create a playground that is accessible, more inclusive, and where children aged 11 and under can play safely.

The feedback told us that the following items of play equipment are the most popular:

• Multi-play tower 
• Swings
• Water play 
• Roundabout
• Sensory play 
• Musical boards 
• Seesaw
• Spinning dish 
• Spring rocker 

We also learned that 85% of respondents prefer wooden play equipment and 37% of respondents said it is important that the playground can be accessed by both non-disabled children and these with health conditions or impairments. 

Thank you to everybody who responded to the consultation.

Invitation to tender

The results of the consultation helped to shape the invitation to tender.

We are currently inviting experienced and qualified contractors to submit proposals for the project by 18 December.

The tenders will be reviewed and shortlisted and suppliers will be notified on 20 December. 

Next stage

In the new year, we will invite you to help us narrow down the shortlist. In this second stage of our public consultation, we will share the shortlisted proposals and ask you to tell us which one you like best. 

We will then interview the contractors who have put forward the top preferred options.

If you want to take part in this consultation, please email us and we’ll ensure you are kept informed. 

Timescale

The initial project stages include:

• Consultation on equipment – Summer 2024
• Tender for playground design – November/December 2024
• Consultation on selection of preferred design – New year 

Planning permission for the toilets will take place in parallel with the playground project.  

Completion of the project is expected in early 2026.

Existing playground

The playground is monitored weekly, and we are continuing to make remedial repairs. We thank you for your patience.

How to stay informed

If you would like to be kept informed about how you can get involved in the project, please email bloom@farnham.gov.uk.