Hays Paddock Playground Redevelopment – A haven for inclusive play.
The first all-abilities playground at Hays Paddock in Kew, Boroondara, opened in 1988 after a community group identified the need for an inclusive playground. This pioneering playground has attracted visitors from across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs and beyond.
After 35 years, Boroondara Council decided it was time to refresh this popular playground, which was officially reopened in August 2024. Architecture & Access collaborated with Jeavons Landscape Architects to ensure the new design remains an inclusive, welcoming space for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoors together.
Accessibility features include;
- Step-free access: Provided to most of the playground, including an expansive raised height play structure.
- Ramps, swaying platforms, and wavy paths: Offer access to multiple slides, games, a kinetic light spinner, lookouts (including a bird hide), communication tubes, and boards.
- Rope nets, spider webs and climbing walls: Help develop balance, strength and confidence for children who enjoy taking risks high above the ground.
- Ground-level play experiences: Include games, musical instruments, tunnels, and nooks for quiet times.
- Dispersed layout: Provides quieter areas for children who need to retreat, and easy supervision for adults is provided by central shaded picnic tables and multiple seats.
- Sand play: Accessible from within the sandpit or adjacent path, with sand play tables at two levels for children and wheelchair users. A handrail supports those who need assistance to walk on the sand to enter the sandpit.
- Multiple swings: Cater to all ages and stages, with some offering greater support. The popular hammock swings have been retained to gently recline and swing or to have rollicking rides with friends. They are a definite favourite!
Image: Helen Fearn-Wannan, lead Access Consultant for the playground from Architecture & Access, enjoying the park with her grandchildren. Image credit: Jeavons Landscape Architects
Small details, such as the heights of telescopes, content of communication boards, and inward swinging entrance gate, were carefully considered with input from the Council, project team, and playground users.
The accessible features blend seamlessly with the overall design, ensuring everyone is included, the ultimate goal of universal design.
Feature image photography credit: Andrew Lloyed
