Play strategy for the former Wycombe district area 2017 to 2022

The need for children and young people to have space to play and be active is vital for both their physical and emotional wellbeing. To ensure that our parks and playgrounds meet their needs and expectations it is vital to ensure their continued input throughout the lifespan of this strategy, as well as during specific consultations for refurbishments and/or development of new playgrounds. Only by listening to the people within the former district, will our playgrounds be able to provide opportunities for activity and play that meet this need.

In addition, it is important that our understanding of modern play, play equipment and new trends in physical activity is kept current to enable us to provide a modern and fresh play experience for all. This could include park routes, adult gym equipment adjacent to children’s play areas, trim trails, and sensory gardens.

It is only by having strong partnerships with parish, local and county councils and voluntary and private sector organisations that we can ensure that suitable fixed play equipment and play opportunities are not only available throughout the district but are complementary to each other.

The former Wycombe District Council will work to ensure funding and developer contributions are provided for the creation of playgrounds and open spaces in new residential developments. Consideration of ease of access to playgrounds and open spaces (including pedestrian and cycle routes) will also be important and the playgrounds and open spaces need to be sited in such a way to encourage community cohesion and usage.

Key programmes will include:

• maintaining knowledge and best practice in relation to play, play equipment and play provision to provide the best experiences for children and young people across the district
• to work in partnership with all relevant stakeholders to provide complementary play provision by providing a range of different play opportunities and experiences throughout the whole of the former district