We were commissioned by Wokingham Borough Council to carry out a full refurbishment of the public play area at Benham Drive, which had become unsafe and in need of significant repair. The site presented multiple challenges — most notably an 8-metre-wide sinkhole that had caused sections of fencing and play equipment to collapse, alongside worn and damaged safety surfacing. The council also identified a large unused space within the play area that offered the opportunity for new, inclusive play features. Our brief was to make the playground safe, durable, and engaging once again — providing a complete solution from ground remediation through to new installations and surfacing. Swipe for more The project delivered a fully rejuvenated and accessible play space that now meets modern safety standards and provides a variety of play opportunities for children of all ages. Key elements of the refurbishment included: Sinkhole Remediation: The 8 m diameter sinkhole was excavated, stabilised, and refilled using appropriate sub-base materials to ensure long-term ground stability and safety. Full Resurfacing and Extension: The entire play area was resurfaced with new, high-quality safety surfacing — and the overall footprint of the play space was extended to make use of available open ground, creating more room for play and new equipment. New Play Equipment: We supplied and installed a Sensory Den from Fahr Industries, offering an inclusive, sensory-rich play experience suitable for children of varying abilities. Additional Play Features: New spring riders were added to enhance play value and variety. Bike Racks: We supplied and installed new cycle parking, encouraging active travel and community accessibility. Equipment Repairs: Replacement ropes were fitted to existing play structures to extend their lifespan and ensure continued safe use. Pathway Repairs: A section of tarmac pathway was repaired to improve access and provide a neat, durable finish around the play area. The project required careful planning and technical execution due to the extent of the subsidence and the need to make the area safe before new works could begin. Ground Stability: The sinkhole demanded a robust remedial approach. Our team conducted a thorough excavation and reinstatement process, compacting layers of stone and sub-base to restore ground integrity before resurfacing. Safety and Coordination: The site was adjacent to open public areas, requiring careful management and secure fencing throughout the works. Comprehensive Refurbishment: By coordinating surfacing, installation, and remedial works simultaneously, we were able to minimise disruption and deliver an efficient, cohesive upgrade to the entire site. The completed Benham Drive play area has been fully restored to a safe, modern, and engaging community space. The combination of essential ground remediation, extended surfacing, and new equipment has transformed the site from an unsafe environment into a vibrant, accessible play destination. This project highlights our ability to deliver complete playground solutions — from complex groundwork challenges through to the installation of new, high-quality play features — all while maintaining the highest standards of safety, finish, and efficiency. Play Area Refurbishment at Benham Drive, Wokingham
The Brief
Key features
Obstacles and Solutions
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