At the heart of one of Bexley’s most popular parks, the redevelopment of Danson Splash Park marks a significant investment in inclusive, sustainable, and community-focused outdoor play. Delivered in partnership with the London Borough of Bexley Council, this project reimagined the existing facility to create a vibrant, accessible water play destination for families of all ages and abilities.

Working closely with key stakeholders, the scheme was carefully redesigned to enhance play value, increase interactivity, and significantly improve long-term operational efficiency. Rather than simply replacing old equipment, the project focused on creating a dynamic and inclusive environment that encourages movement, social interaction, and confidence-building through water play.

The new open-plan layout introduces a gentle area, featuring low level, interactive ground sprays and accessible features, and a more dynamic zone that offers older and more confident users the opportunity for active, high-energy play, with tipping buckets, interactive cannons, and engaging water effects.

Danson Park’s low level items include a Helio with a Mega Orb and north facing water spurt, a Waterbug with Podspray™ enabling children to amplify the water effects and a Luna No.2 with three self-spinning and splashing orbs. All of these products engage children to move, whilst offering a pleasant, close up and interactive experience with water. To accompany all of the above ground play items, there are two Jet Streams that present as fine and single, vertical sprays and a Fountain No.1 and Fountain No.2 that grow wider and more shapely from the ground up.

At the centre of the design sits a signature feature called Sunspray, bringing visual impact and play engagement together. Sunspray, with its 360° rotation and spiralling water patterns ability, creates a sense of excitement through shared, interactive experiences, ensuring the splash park remains lively and engaging throughout the day.

Accessibility is a key driver for every project and a DDA-compliant activation bollard positioned at waist height ensures that children of all abilities can activate the water play. Danson Splash Park is an inclusive and accessible splash pad that invites everyone to play.

Alongside play value, sustainability and operational efficiency were central to the design approach. The upgraded facility incorporates modern water management technology designed to reduce water consumption while maintaining high-quality play experiences. This ensures the splash park not only delivers immediate community benefit but also provides a long-term, cost-effective solution for the Council.

The result is a revitalised community asset that reflects the evolving role of public spaces, supporting health, wellbeing, and social connection. As highlighted by the Council, the improvements ensure that the water playground will continue to be enjoyed by local families for many years to come, offering an inclusive outdoor environment for those who may not have access to private gardens.

Danson Park stands as a strong example of how thoughtful design, stakeholder collaboration, and a clear focus on community needs can transform an existing facility into a modern, welcoming destination that brings people together through play.

Direct award via the Y23064 Procurement Services Playground, Fitness and Sports Equipment and Leisure Facilities Framework Lot 5 Waterplay (Indoor and Outdoor)