Play areas and youth facilities

The Children's Outdoor Play Strategy identifies the National and European Standards relating to play area provision. These standards guide the refurbishment and new development requirements.

The Sandwell code for formal play provision provides the basis for the locations of the outdoor play provision. Namely that priority will be given to providing:
  • At least one Locally Equipped Area of Play (LEAP) in each neighbourhood
  • At least one Neighbourhood Equipped Area for Play (NEAP) in each ward
  • At least one Strategic Equipped Area for Play (SEAP) in each town

Formal provision means formally designated playing space for children. It consists of outdoor equipped playgrounds and kick about areas for children and young people. Play provision wherever possible is complemented by further provision such as youth shelters, multi sports areas and skateboard facilities for young people aged 11 to 16 years.

The council is committed to providing the appropriate quality and quantity of play facilities and in particular formal play provision. There is currently an imbalance between the towns on play provision and the Council is committed to addressing this imbalance.