Revamped play area at Smithson Rec in Hitchin

Climbing, running, spinning, swinging, sliding – it’s all going on at Smithson Recreation Ground in Upper Tilehouse Street, Hitchin, following a makeover.

Working with our partners Groundwork East, a few items of play equipment have been repainted and/or relocated, but a number of new items have been added, including:

Councillor Steve Jarvis, Executive Member for Environment and Leisure, said: “The revamped area looks great, and with wildflower planting dotted around it’s a great environment to be in. With equipment for a wide range of children of all abilities, we hope the local community enjoy their refreshed play area for years to come.”

The original double swing has been repainted, and an elephant rocker relocated.

Catherine Browne, Landscape Architect from Groundwork, said: “Our aim was to create a climate resilient and accessible playground – by removing the tarmac we created more space for nature, a cooler surface for children to play on and an absorbent surface for times of high rainfall. The equipment was chosen to widen the play age range of children (and Catherine Browne, Landscape Architect from Groundwork, said: “Our aim was to create a climate resilient and accessible playground – by removing the tarmac we created more space for nature, a cooler surface for children to play on and an absorbent surface for times of high rainfall. The equipment was chosen to widen the play age range of children (and adults!). There was a beautiful 1980s four-seat swing which we tried to keep, however it had passed beyond its useable lifespan and couldn’t be relocated on site, so the birds nest swing was put in its place. Another aim was to diversify the play provisions within the play area, sensory planting was included to teach children about nature as well as try to cater for more neurodiverse needs.”

Smithson Recreation Ground was given to the council by local suffragette Sarah Smithson (1844-1928) when it formed part of her property, originally donated to the community for the enjoyment of women and girls.

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