Greenfield Primary School, Stourbridge, West Midlands

The Brief

During Greenfield Primary’s transition into Dudley Academies Trust, the condition of the playground was identified as a key priority. Years of limited investment had resulted in worn surfacing and ageing equipment. In particular, the existing timber trim trail had progressively deteriorated, with several elements removed due to rot and associated safety concerns, leaving the space fragmented and underutilised.

The Trust’s ambition was to deliver a visible and meaningful upgrade that would signal positive change while enhancing the daily experience of pupils. The brief focused on transforming this tired, underperforming area into a safe, durable, and stimulating play environment restoring functionality, increasing engagement, and creating an outdoor space the school community could once again take pride in.

Our Solution

The Trust initially proposed replacing the existing surfacing with wetpour; however, ESP recommended artificial grass as a more appropriate solution due to the playground’s location within a tree-lined area. Ongoing leaf fall and organic debris would have compromised the longevity and maintenance requirements of wetpour, making artificial grass the more practical and sustainable option. In addition to its suitability, artificial grass also offered a more cost-effective solution.

Given the playground’s roadside position, creating a natural and welcoming visual was an important consideration during consultation with the school. The existing surface was found to lack an adequate sub-base, with hidden dips and undulations evident throughout the area, further reinforcing the need for a comprehensive groundworks approach.

The replacement trim trail was carefully designed to support the physical development of both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 pupils, providing progressive challenge, durability, and long-term play value.

What We Delivered

• A 10-piece low-level trim trail designed to support a broad range of gross motor skills, including balance, coordination, strength, and agility.
• High-quality artificial grass surfacing installed onto a newly constructed MOT Type 1 stone sub-base to ensure long-term durability and stability.
• Tree pits defined with block paving borders and finished with rubber mulch infill to support tree movement and improve overall presentation.
• An inclusive trail layout accessible to both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 pupils, providing appropriate challenge across age groups.

The Outcome

The revitalised playground has transformed a previously underused and deteriorating space into a vibrant, engaging environment that supports active play throughout the school day. The new trim trail encourages the development of balance, coordination, strength, and confidence across both KS1 and KS2 pupils, while the upgraded surfacing ensures improved safety and year-round usability.

Visually, the space now presents a natural and welcoming appearance from the roadside, signalling positive investment and change since the school’s transition into Dudley Academies Trust. The project has not only enhanced physical development opportunities but also restored pride in the outdoor environment for pupils, staff, and the wider school community.