Young designers shape playgrounds together

David Wilson Redrow South West is inviting children in Devon and across the UK to take part in its Junior Playmakerscompetition, encouraging young minds to design an inclusive playground for children of all abilities.

Open to ages 7–14, the competition asks entrants to submit drawings of their dream play space. The winning designs will be built in communities nationwide, supporting the company’s pledge to create 100 new inclusive playgrounds each year.

Prizes include up to £500 in vouchers for play equipment, as well as the chance to work alongside professional planners to bring ideas to life. Young designers are encouraged to think beyond swings and slides, creating imaginative spaces that spark creativity, adventure, and social connection for everyone.

The initiative, launched by Redrow in 2023, has already inspired playground features ranging from sensory boards to basketball hoops. This year’s winners will join a growing group of Junior Heads of Play, helping to shape the future of inclusive outdoor spaces.

The competition comes as new research from David Wilson Redrow highlights a decline in outdoor play. Surveying over 2,000 parents, the findings reveal that half of parents of children with disabilities say their child is excluded from playgrounds due to accessibility issues. In addition, nearly two-thirds (65%) of parents report that their children play outside less than they did at the same age.

Sales Director Louise Ware said, “We’re passionate about making play accessible to every child. By listening to the real experts—children themselves—we can design playgrounds that truly reflect their needs.”

Parents can nominate their child by emailing a playground drawing to social@redrow.co.uk before midday, Friday 5 September. Full details and terms can be found at www.barrattredrow.co.uk/playmaking.