KB Arabia – Sussex
This public playground and community space needed a revamp, we were happy to take on the project!
This project at KB Arabia in Sussex turned an overlooked, underused plot into a dynamic, accessible community play zone that supports everything from imaginative play to active sports.
The Challenge
The site at KB Arabia was an existing community space with no meaningful play value and ageing infrastructure. It was visually disconnected from the neighbourhood and offered little to encourage community use.
The parish council set clear priorities for the transformation:
- Reduce future maintenance requirements while providing year-round value
- Improve accessibility and ensure safe, inclusive use for all
- Introduce equipment to encourage both imaginative and physical play
- Create a welcoming, engaging destination for children and families
Our Approach
Commercial Play designed a space that combined high-energy play, quiet rest areas, and a sports zone, all within a visually striking, inclusive layout.
The chosen equipment included:
- King’s Tower multi-play structure, featuring climbing walls, platforms, a bridge, and a tube slide, encouraging imaginative exploration and physical development
- Inclusive dish springers for sensory engagement and balance, suitable for younger children and those with mobility differences
- 4-way seesaw to support social interaction and group play
- Zig-zag benches to create welcoming spaces for carers and resting children
- Basketball zone with dedicated soft sports panels and clear court markings for older children and teens
The design created distinct zones that cater to a wide age range, encourage inclusive play, and provide flexible use throughout the year.
Key Features Installed
- Wet pour safety surfacing for critical fall protection and all-weather use
- Artificial grass for natural texture with low upkeep
- Tarmac for multi-use games areas and easy access routes
- Weld mesh green sports fencing with single and double gate access, ensuring secure supervision and safe entry/exit
All surfaces were chosen for high durability, minimal maintenance, and full compliance with BS EN 1177 safety standards, supporting long-term value for public investment.
Results & Benefits
Increased Use & Community Appeal: The site has become a true local destination, encouraging regular visits and social activity.
- Inclusive & Accessible: Full wheelchair and buggy access, with equipment designed for all abilities and ages.
- Visual Transformation: Bright, modern surfacing and eye-catching equipment have revitalised the area.
- Low Maintenance & Cost-Effective: Durable materials and careful planning reduce future upkeep burdens for the council.
- Year-Round Value: The combination of surfacing and design enables safe, enjoyable use throughout all seasons.
Why This Matters for Councils
This project shows how thoughtful design and expert installation can:
- Deliver inclusive, accessible play and sports opportunities
- Create welcoming, attractive spaces that build community pride
- Support physical activity and imaginative play across age groups
- Offer a sustainable, low-maintenance solution that maximises public investment
- Meet rigorous safety and compliance standards
Before & After
Before the transformation, the KB Arabia site was a tired, underused green space with no engaging play equipment and minimal community appeal.
BEFORE IMAGES
FINAL INSTALLATION IMAGES
#playgroundmakeover #communityplayarea #kbarabia #sussexplayarea #playgroundinsussex #surfacing #multiplaytower #swings #playgroundsurfacing #playgroundfencing