Completed during April 2026, the projects at St Andrews School in Buckland Monachorum, St Michael’s CE School in Exeter, and Tregadillett Village near Launceston each replaced ageing timber equipment with long-lasting recycled plastic alternatives designed to withstand heavy use and harsh weather conditions for decades to come.

While recycled plastic equipment typically costs more upfront than timber, schools and community organisations are increasingly recognising the long-term value it offers through significantly improved lifespan, minimal maintenance requirements and reduced replacement costs.

The three projects included:
- St Andrews School LAPSW, Buckland Monachorum, Devon
Rhino Play designed and installed a large recycled plastic trim trail running alongside the school field and existing pathway network. The project included Triple Balance Beams, Monkey Bars, Rope Crossing, Swinging Log Steps, Traversing Trees and over 115m² of Rubber Grass Mats safety surfacing. The trail was specifically designed to spread children across the available space while still allowing confident pupils to complete the course continuously. Separate lower-level pieces were also included for Reception and KS1 pupils.

- St Michael’s CE School, Exeter
After the school’s original timber trail deteriorated through rot and wear, Rhino Play supplied a new recycled plastic fitness trail designed to provide a long-term solution following extensive school fundraising efforts. The installation included an Inclined Balance Beam, Twister, Inclined Balance Weaver and Wobble Steps Bridge linked together to create a continuous activity circuit for primary-aged children. The project restored a valuable outdoor fitness facility for pupils after a prolonged period without one.

- Tregadillett Village, Near Launceston, Cornwall
A full community playground revamp after the previous timber equipment reached the end of its lifespan. The new installation included the Ramsbury Play System featuring an HDPE slide, climbing ramps, steel cargo net, tunnel, clatter bridge and stainless steel fireman’s pole, alongside a four-seat swing system with birds nest, cradle and flat seats. More than 69m² of Rubber Grass Mats safety surfacing was also installed. The project was designed to provide a modern, durable play space while remaining sympathetic to the rural Cornish surroundings.

Stuart Hunt, Head of Sales, Advice and Design at Rhino Play, said: “What we’re seeing across these projects is a clear shift in thinking. Schools and communities are looking beyond the initial purchase price and focusing on what delivers the best long-term value.

“Timber equipment can work well in certain environments, but in many cases, especially in damp locations or high-use community spaces. Recycled plastic provides a far more durable solution. It won’t rot, it doesn’t splinter, and it dramatically reduces long-term maintenance requirements.
“Across all three projects, the priority was creating facilities that would continue serving children and communities for many years into the future while also supporting a strong sustainability message through the use of recycled materials.
“Having delivered playground projects across schools and communities throughout the South West, it’s incredibly rewarding to see spaces transformed into facilities children genuinely enjoy using every day. These projects are about far more than simply replacing old equipment - they’re about creating outdoor environments where children can stay active, build confidence, play together and enjoy being outside for many years to come.”
The projects also presented several installation challenges, including wet winter conditions, constrained access routes and the need to work carefully within existing school and community layouts. Despite this, all three schemes were completed successfully and are now fully in use.

About Rhino Play
Rhino Play specialises in creating bespoke, sustainable, and inclusive playground designs that inspire learning, creativity, and physical development. Based in Devon, their experienced team works closely with schools, councils, and community groups across the UK to deliver high-quality playground solutions built to last.