We were asked this recently at a meeting where a potential customer was enquiring about a new commercial playground. And it got us thinking – how much do people usually spend?
Clearly budgets aren’t limitless and there are always other things to spend money on apart from some fabulous new outdoor play equipment. We always bear this in mind when discussing projects, but it's often difficult to understand exactly how big the pot is. Sometimes the money available and the expectations aren't always aligned, but we'll always find a way of providing something which fits yours needs and requirements.
Of course there are always projects with a big five figure budget which make designing your play area a lot easier. You get a lot for that sort of money in our range – take a look at the custom designs.
If a big budget isn't readily available, then one option we suggest is expansion. Put something in now, and then when more money is raised, extend the playground with new equipment. Our multiplay tower systems are ideal for this – just add a bridge (or crawl tube or monkey bar connector) and another clubhouse and you get a bigger, better play area. Or with a play trail, simply extend it with some more pieces. As long as you plan for this in the original project, then it's quite simple!
Another factor to take into account is the safer surfacing. It's much easier for many clients and fundraisers to justify the price of a playground with lots of activities. It makes an impact. You can see what you’ve paid for. The kids are having fun. However, when we start to add in the cost of the surfacing (which can swallow a good chunk of the budget) it gets a bit harder. You'll need to discuss Health & Safety, and risk of injury, but the fact remains that if there is a limited budget available, many people are dismayed to see a third disappear on the treatment to the ground.
Our pricing is completely transparent, so after you've agreed the concept design, we'll provide a full proposal - which includes detailed designs, renders and the quote (of course we'll be working within your budget). And in our catalogue we've got plenty of playgrounds we've installed along with the pricing.
But one thing to bear in mind is this is an investment. It will last for years and continue to do its job of bringing in more customers to your pub, hotel or commercial business, and support the physical and social development of EYFS, primary, secondary and SEN children at schools.