Refurbishment of Potterhill play area Perth

We proposed a sketch masterplan for the park which showed refurbishment of the play area, new footpaths, a new seating area and landscaping including tree planting, bulbs and wildflowers and asked for your comments.

There were 81 constructive responses to the consultation.   It was clear that the site was well used and that people cared and were concerned about existing condition.  There was good positive feedback to the proposed improvements.

The top priorities for play equipment were the multi unit, swings, slide and roundabout.  There were a number of requests for a zipline, larger climbing unit and sand play.  Unfortunately, we are not able to provide these at Potterhill because of the limited space on site and the steep slopes around it.

Several respondents requested more play provision for older children.  Play areas in Perth are categorised according to the PKC play strategy.  Potterhill Play area is categorised as a LEAP (Local Equipped Area for Play).  Play provision for this category of play area is focussed on the 4-8 age group – although we hope that older children will also enjoy some of the new items being installed.

Nature, tree planting and wildflowers were high on the list of landscape priorities as well as retaining existing shrubs and trees.

General areas of concern noted were:

• Poor condition of existing play surfacing
• Access to the play area
• Inclusivity
• Maintenance

In response to the consultation results, we've made some changes to our original play area design to make sure we can focus on what matters most to the community.

The springie which came lowest on the list of preferred play equipment has been removed and instead we are providing a larger trampoline and new spinning disc roundabout.  There is no current inclusive play provision and three of the new items of play equipment will now provide this.

All of the existing surfacing will be replaced with rubber safety surfacing in bright colours.  The slopes around the site make it impossible to provide access for all.  However, we plan to improve the path access to Potterhill flats by widening the existing path and providing an even ramp and steps into the play area.  There will also be a handrail next to the path to ease access.

The new tree planting and wildflower areas will enhance biodiversity.  The existing shrub beds will be cleared of weeds and any dead plants removed.  Spaces will be filled with new shrubs chosen to encourage birds and butterflies.  We have added a small community orchard to the design on the slope next to the path. We hope to engage with local schools and groups for fruit tree and wildflower planting events.

Signs will be installed to encourage people to keep their dogs on leads near the play area.  There will be a site sign with emergency contact details and a logo designed by local children.

There will also be seats next to the play area.  Two new litter / dog bins will be installed.

This project is currently out to tender with a view to starting on site in January 2026.