Cookson ParkA park for young people

The park is one space on the green corridor of the Green Web Study. The design accentuates the valley like shape of the park, retaining the open views to the city of Sheffield.

Within this multiple stakeholder project KLA consulted with primary schools, Sheffield Wildlife Trust, Community Forums and TARAs. Three local primary schools participated in introducing the park to the design team and choosing ideas for play.

The park acts as a gateway to Southey and Owlerton and attracts visitors from throughout the Sheffield area. The leisure facilities include a football area, Cycle Speedway track, climbing and play walls, and the large custom-built skate park.

Innovative public consultation engaged the community with their new park. Young people were involved in the design development from the outset, including them in the design process. The skate and bmx park was developed in consultation with skater groups- the aim was to create a special skate friendly area that would encourage visits from enthusiasts from across the region.

An oversized wallpaper pattern is stencilled onto the play wall – a wall with cut out holes, climbing and play equipment. Large group swings, the climbing walls and stainless steel play mounds all work to encourage play for a mixed age group. Tranquil areas are found beside the play areas with new trees and wildflower meadows; young and old can sit side by side enjoying the place in their own way.