Devon children invited to help design new inclusive playgrounds

Children in Devon are being asked to put their imaginations to work and help shape the playgrounds of the future.

Housebuilder David Wilson Redrow South West, currently developing homes at Romansfield in Okehampton and St Michael’s Meadow in Exeter, has launched The Junior Playmakers competition - an open call to children aged 7–14 across Devon and the UK to design their dream inclusive play area.

The aim is to create spaces where children of all abilities can play together. Winning designs will not only be celebrated but also brought to life in communities nationwide, as part of the company’s pledge to build 100 new inclusive play areas every year.

The competition, which closes on 5th September, offers more than just the chance to make a lasting impact. Winners will receive up to £500 in vouchers for play equipment and will work alongside professional planners to turn their creative visions into reality.

Launched nationally in 2023, the Junior Head of Play initiative has already inspired ideas from sensory boards to basketball hoops, helping shape accessible and engaging play spaces across the country.

The call for entries comes as new research from David Wilson Redrow reveals growing concerns over the decline of outdoor play, particularly for children with disabilities or neurodiverse needs. A survey of over 2,000 parents found that 50% of parents of children with disabilities say their child has been excluded from playgrounds due to poor accessibility, while 65% of parents overall say their children play outside less than they did at the same age.

Louise Ware, Sales Director at David Wilson Redrow South West, said:

“At David Wilson Redrow, we’re passionate about making play accessible to every child. By listening to the real experts, children living in Devon who use these spaces, we can design playgrounds that truly reflect what kids want and need. We’re excited to see the incredible ideas the Junior Playmakers bring to life this year.”

Parents can nominate their child by emailing a drawing of their dream playground to social@redrow.co.uk before the midday deadline on Friday, 5th September. Full competition details are available at www.barrattredrow.co.uk/playmaking