The new and inclusive playground at The Level

The following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) have been produced to respond to your comments following our feedback event on the 27th August 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 8th September 2026

Why, What and When?

Why are we replacing The Level playground?

The current play equipment was installed in 2012 as part of The Level restoration project and has now reached the end of its operational life. The refurbishment will ensure the playground remains safe, inclusive and enjoyable for future generations.

When will work start and finish?

Work is due to begin in the week commencing Monday 7 September and is expected to take around 10 weeks, subject to weather conditions. A public reopening event is planned towards the end of the year.

Where can I find updates on progress?

Updates will be shared on the Your Voice project page, council social media channels and park noticeboards. Project: The new and inclusive playground at The Level | Brighton & Hove City Council.

Will any of the playground remain open during the works?

No. The playground will be fully closed while work takes place. The rest of The Level, including the café kiosk and skatepark, will remain open.

How much is the refurbishment costing and how is it funded?

The refurbishment will cost approximately £300,000 and is being funded entirely through Section 106 developer contributions.

Will the old play equipment be recycled?

Yes. Wherever possible, removed equipment will be recycled or repurposed. Plants removed during the works will be replanted elsewhere at The Level or in another city park.

Will we be able to see into the playground while work is underway?

Yes. The site will remain visible through the construction fencing. Please do not enter the fenced area and ensure children remain a safe distance from the works.

When will the play fountains be operational again?

The water feature is managed separately from the playground project and is currently out of service while a new pump is installed. Freedom Leisure will provide updates via their website.

Are other playgrounds across the city being improved as well?

Yes. Over the last five years, more than £3 million has been invested in improving 45 playgrounds across Brighton & Hove. Future improvements will depend on available funding.

Who can I contact if I have concerns about the playground?

Please contact cityparks@brighton-hove.gov.uk with any concerns relating to the play area or equipment.

Will there be toilets in the playground?

Public toilets, including accessible and baby changing facilities, are available in the Maclaren Pavilion next to the café kiosk.

Will there be drinking water fountains in the playground?

No. Drinking water fountains cannot be provided within the play area due to health and safety considerations.

Will there be litter bins?

Yes. The new design includes litter bins within the playground.

Will there still be benches and picnic tables?

Yes. New benches and picnic tables, including accessible seating, will be installed as part of the refurbishment.

Will there be shade and shelter?

The playground is surrounded by mature trees that provide natural shade and shelter. No trees are being removed as part of the project.

Are any trees being removed?

No. No trees will be removed as part of the refurbishment.

Will the playground still be fenced?

Yes. The existing fencing will be removed and recycled, with new fencing installed in the same locations, including the playground safety gates.

Will the lighting be retained?

Yes. The existing playground lighting will remain.

How has the design improved visibility and safety?

The new layout and landscaping provide clearer sightlines across the playground and surrounding park. Enclosed structures and dense planting that could obstruct visibility have been removed from the design.

Play Equipment and Accessibility

What accessible features are being introduced?

The new playground includes:

• A flush-access roundabout
• A multi-play unit with wide steps and support handles
• Inclusive swing options, including a wheelchair-transferable pod swing and a bucket seat
• Communication panels for non-verbal users
• Sensory play equipment and interactive panels

Accessibility and inclusion were key requirements throughout the design and procurement process.

What will there be for younger children?

A dedicated toddler area will include climbing, sliding, spinning and rocking equipment, as well as sensory play features and a playhouse.

What will there be for older children?

Older children will be able to enjoy:

• A large tower play unit
• Climbing features
• A long tube slide
• A Ninja Warrior-style ramp
• Horizontal bars and physical challenges

These features are designed to encourage active and adventurous play.

Why isn't there a wheelchair-accessible swing?

The council is committed to accessible play and works closely with specialist organisations to ensure facilities meet users' needs.

Wheelchair-accessible swings work best as part of a fully accessible destination site, supported by features such as accessible parking, Changing Places facilities, step-free access and safe routes throughout the site. Brighton & Hove's first destination accessible play space is planned for Stanmer Park in 2027.

Why is the sand play area being removed?

Consultation feedback showed support for removing the sand because it spreads beyond the play area, is difficult to maintain and can conceal hazards.

The sand area will be replaced with accessible wet-pour safety surfacing, providing a cleaner, more stable and easier-to-maintain play surface throughout the year. Dedicated sand play facilities remain available at Blakers Park, Preston Park, Queen's Park and St Ann's Well Gardens.

What will happen to the wooden sheep and shark sculptures?

The wooden sheep and shark are being removed because they have deteriorated and now present safety risks. They will be recycled.

Materials, Sustainability and Delivery

Why isn't the new equipment made from wood?

The existing timber equipment has reached the end of its life and needs replacing. The new equipment uses galvanised steel and durable laminate panels, which are more resilient in coastal conditions and have a longer lifespan.

The equipment comes with a 65-year warranty.

What are the environmental credentials of the new equipment?

Proludic UK, the appointed play equipment supplier, publishes both an Environmental Policy and Environmental Statement as part of its sustainability programme.

The company states that it is committed to:

• Offering sustainable play products
• Reducing environmental impacts
• Tackling climate change
• Maintaining strong local connections with communities

Who is delivering the new playground?

The project is being delivered by Brighton & Hove City Council in partnership with Proludic UK, the appointed playground designer and equipment supplier. Accessibility, durability, sustainability and inclusion were key considerations in the design and procurement process.

Further information

The latest updates will be posted as a new phase here on the Your Voice project page. You can also check park noticeboards or email:

cityparks@brighton-hove.gov.uk