Rope play configuration no. 22 – ten modules with observation tower

Rope play configuration no. 22 is the largest layout Light In Fitness supplies in this series: ten interconnected modules across 46.8 x 39.4 m, reaching 9.6 m. It combines a play tower with an observation tower extension, a rope climbing pyramid with a wide slide, a sliding pole, internal and external access shafts and a further play structure, all joined by two transition elements.

The observation tower

The observation tower extension is what turns this from a very large playground into a park feature. Children climb for the view rather than only for the descent, and adults use it too. On a regional park or a major leisure destination that changes the visitor profile: the installation becomes something people photograph and return to, which is the argument that usually justifies a capital allocation at this scale.

Ten modules

• Play tower with observation tower extension
• Rope climbing pyramid with wide slide
• Sliding pole and internal / external access shafts
• Additional play structure
• Two transition elements linking the modules

The internal access shaft lets children climb up inside the pyramid instead of over its outer face, and the sliding pole gives a fast descent that does not compete with the slide queue. Between the shafts, the pole, the slide and the two transition elements there are enough routes through the installation that a large group circulates rather than queues.

Materials and finish

Hot-dip galvanised steel throughout; the observation tower is additionally powder-coated. Coating the tower and not the rest is a deliberate choice — the tower is the visual landmark and carries the colour, while the play structures keep the plain galvanised finish that wears best under heavy use.

Installation and surfacing

Heavy plant access is required. Foundations are 1.0 m deep across ten module positions, so allow a proper two-stage programme with curing time before erection. The free height of fall is 3.0 m: the impact area requires a surface certified to EN 1177 for a critical fall height of at least 3.0 m over a safety area of 51.0 x 43.7 m — more than 2,200 m². The equipment itself is certified to EN 1176-1:2017 by an independent certification body; EN 1177 governs the surfacing.

Technical specification

Frequently asked questions

Does a 9.6 m observation tower need planning permission?

Treat it as though it does. At this height, and particularly within sight of housing or in a designated landscape, raise it with the planning authority before the design is fixed. We can supply elevations for a pre-application discussion.

Is the sliding pole appropriate for the declared age range?

It is designed and certified for the 5 to 14 range as part of the configuration. Access to it is via the tower, so younger children reach it only by completing a climb that already filters for the necessary competence.

What is the realistic total project cost driver?

Surfacing and groundworks, not the equipment alone. Over 2,200 m² at a 3.0 m critical fall height is a substantial works package and should be priced alongside the structure from the outset.

Send us the plot survey, access constraints, planning context and ground conditions, and we will return a costed proposal with a scaled siting drawing and a surfacing schedule within 24 business hours.