Creating social value through innovative sport and play areas for all ages

explains why creating play experiences is fundamentally important to getting people of all ages more active

Marco Boi, Founder and CEO of Play Innovation,

and play areas for all ages Creating social value through innovative sport

Marco Boi, Founder and CEO of Play Innovation,

When we envision the future of our communities, it’s easy to get caught up in the allure of advanced technologies, smart infrastructures and groundbreaking innovations. Yet, sometimes the most profound impact comes from reimagining the fundamental spaces that bring people together. Since its inception in 2010, Play Innovation has embodied this philosophy with its take on transforming traditional play areas into dynamic hubs of social interaction and physical activity for all ages and abilities. At its core, Play Innovation operates on a simple principle: play is a universal language that transcends age, background, and ability. By designing and building family-inclusive sport and play zones, environments are created where everyone – from toddlers to grandparents – can engage in informal, meaningful physical activity and social interaction. Like Play Innovation’s Director of Social Value, Libby Boi, puts it: “These aren’t just playgrounds and sports areas; they’re community epicentres that foster connection, understanding, and unity on top of tackling physical inactivity.”

Transforming communities

One of the most compelling outcomes of Play Innovation’s approach is the tangible reduction in physical inactivity, particularly in areas where a lack of access to engaging recreational spaces has previously limited opportunities for physical activity. Two examples of this can be seen in the London Boroughs of Newham and Hammersmith & Fulham, where the redevelopment of underused, deteriorating recreational spaces has encouraged families and young people to become more active. These vibrant, well-designed play and sport areas have not only significantly boosted levels of physical activity but have also fostered a stronger sense of community and well-being.

The projects weren’t merely about installing new equipment; they were driven by our approach to rethink how we use historical and new data and other learnings from engaging with families and youth within our communities. We can’t be all things to all people, but involving a wide range of people in the design process is crucial. Take the way we design family inclusive play areas, where we offer alternatives to negative behaviours and demonstrate trust and respect.

The goal is to provide those “WOW” moments wherever possible

The goal is to provide those “WOW” moments wherever possible. Investing in high quality infrastructure demonstrates that the local authority or funder genuinely cares. It’s a proactive solution that addresses the root causes rather than just the symptoms.

A call to local authorities and housing associations

Investing in innovative play areas isn’t just a benevolent act – it’s a strategic move for long-term community development which provides a return of investment. By collaborating with suppliers in an intelligent way and listening with sincerity to community leaders, local authorities and housing associations have a unique opportunity to spearhead a transformation. By integrating Play Innovation’s concepts into community planning, they can address multiple objectives: l Enhancing Social Cohesion: Family Inclusive play areas break down social barriers, encouraging interaction among diverse groups. l Promoting Health and Well-being: Physical activity is essential for all ages, and these spaces make exercise accessible and enjoyable. l Economic Benefits: Safer, more cohesive communities often see a boost in local economies, attracting businesses and increasing property values.

l Environmental Impact: Thoughtfully designed play areas can incorporate sustainable materials and green spaces, contributing to environmental goals.

Harnessing mobile technology to drive social value through innovative sport and play areas

Physical inactivity in the UK is a giant problem, costing the NHS billions. Sedentary lifestyles, the cost of living, lack of safe, free and inspiring recreational facilities and of course, mobile phones all play a part in the problem.

Back in 2016 Play Innovation beta tested a novel idea that today may be set to revolutionise school playgrounds and community spaces. Street Snooker, a fun ‘flick football’ mobile game with engaging game play and leaderboards, teaches players how to play the game whilst in the comfort of their own home, and then prompts them to go and play the ‘real life’ version in their local play park or school playground.

I believe that by harnessing the power of mobile phones in the right way, we can get more children active. I say this because during testing and consultation with children we identified thateight out of 10 children would be more likely to go and try the version outside if they previously played Street Snooker on their phone.

Building the future together

As we strive towards creating better futures for our communities, it’s imperative to recognise the role of inclusive, engaging public spaces. They are the bedrock upon which strong, resilient communities are built. By investing in innovative projects, we aren’t just installing playgrounds – we’re laying the foundation for a more connected, compassionate society.

So let’s challenge ourselves to think differently about community development. Let’s prioritise initiatives that deliver social value, foster inclusion, and address societal challenges head-on. The future isn’t just about technological advancements; it’s about improving the human experience in every neighbourhood, town, and city.

By embracing innovative solutions, we can make strides toward a world where everyone has the opportunity to play, interact, and thrive together.