Spatial constraints at Shoreline – Barnstaple, Devon – January 2026

When WAVE MAT asked Rhino Play what we think could fit into their available outdoor space at their Barnstaple (The Shoreline Academy) school, we had a challenge on our hands! Another company had offered them a timber trim trail which they were interested in, however they didn’t want timber and also wanted to have a quote and design from us using our long standing expertise.

Measuring For Tight Playground Spaces

Stuart went to site at and carried out some detailed measurements of the spatial constraints. As it turned out the other company’s trail didn’t fit the area available as there was not enough falling space and area. Our design was created using the space available within the confines of the tall perimeter fencing, which also narrowed at one end.

All play and trim trail equipment has invisible falling spaces that no hard object can be within, so a detailed measurement for areas like this is essential.

Upgrading To Non-Rot Recycled Plastic Play Equipment

The area is also very sheltered by a high fence and trees, making it damp. The reasoning behind using recycled plastic trim trail equipment here is to prevent the damp conditions from prematurely rotting out any timber equipment. WAVE MAT have also previously used our recycled equipment in various other sites and are very impressed with it and wanted roll it out here too.

The project involved excavating the turf and soil to not only create a more level area, but to also provide the base works for the new rubber wet pour surfacing. Again the tight access did make this difficult, however the project went very smoothly and the end result was a well designed linked low level trail along with the wet pour rubber surface allowing all year use.

The pupils come to this school at various points throughout their schooling, usually as a result of their school placement having broken down, so the addition of a facility like this really helps them to focus their physical energy, frustrations & as well as interacting with others in a safe controlled environment.