The survey found that councils constrict the design of play areas by rigidly adhering to guidance they do not always consider helpful. Nearly two-thirds of the 77 respondents said the possibility of litigation was a major influence on the kinds of equipment they purchased for playgrounds. The report concludes that an over-cautious approach is "undermining the necessary presence of risk within children's play".
Report author Sarah Cheverton said: "The underlying ethos of local authority service provision is often predominantly risk-averse. But exposure to risk is vital to encourage creativity and personal development."
The survey found local authorities use a wide variety of standards and guidelines when designing and purchasing equipment for playgrounds, including British Standards, Fields in Trust's Six Acre Standard and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents' play guidelines. But many felt some of the recommendations led to a narrow vision of design. "As guidance becomes more specific and onerous, the ability to provide fun, challenging, exciting facilities diminishes," said one respondent.
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