Client: Harewood Parish Council
Value: £140,000.00
Located in the picturesque village of Harewood, on the outskirts of Leeds, this recreational park was developed on a previously undeveloped area of rural land situated adjacent to the main A61 route. The project was designed to transform an underutilised open space into a high-quality community facility that would provide opportunities for recreation, fitness, play, and social interaction while remaining sympathetic to its rural surroundings.
The initial phase of the works involved extensive site preparation and ground engineering activities. Existing scrubland, self-seeded vegetation, and unwanted growth were carefully cleared to create a suitable foundation for the development. Topsoil was excavated across designated areas of the site, allowing for a programme of cut-and-fill operations to be undertaken. These earthworks enabled the regrading and reshaping of the landscape, creating a more functional and visually appealing environment.
As part of the site modelling process, excavated material was reused to construct a landscaped mound, demonstrating a sustainable approach to material management. A section of the play area was strategically positioned on this raised feature, adding visual interest and providing varied play experiences for users. The park’s footpath network was constructed using MOT Type 1 stone, creating durable, accessible routes that connected the various facilities throughout the site.
A range of modern fitness and play equipment was installed across the park to cater for users of different ages and abilities. Appropriate safety surfacing was incorporated beneath and around all equipment in accordance with relevant standards, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for visitors. In addition, a full-sized tennis court facility was constructed, comprising perimeter mesh fencing, a MOT Type 1 sub-base, specialist court surfacing, and professionally applied line markings to create a high-quality sporting provision for the local community.
To enhance the overall visitor experience, a number of benches and picnic tables were installed throughout the park, providing opportunities for rest, relaxation, and social gatherings. The soft landscaping package included planting, grass seeding, and comprehensive reinstatement works, all carefully selected and implemented to complement the surrounding countryside setting and promote biodiversity.
The completed development successfully delivered the client’s vision of a multifunctional outdoor space that encourages health, wellbeing, recreation, and community engagement. The finished park provides an attractive and sustainable environment for fitness, play, and leisure activities, whilst remaining visually and environmentally sensitive to the character of the surrounding rural landscape.
