How Easy is it to Add a Slide Park to your Venue?
Adding a slide or small slide park can be a great way to refresh an existing attraction and give visitors another reason to return.
The installation itself can be relatively straightforward, but there are a few things to think about before getting started. From safety and planning permission to space, installation and visitor flow, good planning can make the whole process so much easier.
Safety and compliance
Safety should be considered from the start of any fibreglass slide park project.
Commercial slides may need to meet relevant British and European safety standards, such as BS EN 1176 and BS EN 1177. The exact standards that apply will depend on the type of slide, its location and how it will be used in future.
Working with an experienced manufacturer can help make sure important details such as fall zones, surfacing, access and safety clearances are considered from the beginning.
Planning permission
Depending on the size (and location) of your slide park, you may need planning permission. This can be particularly relevant for larger structures, significant groundworks or changes to an existing site or building.
It’s worth checking with your local authority early in the project so that any necessary approvals can be factored into your timescales.
Allow enough space
The space around your slide is just as important as the slide itself. You’ll need to consider landing areas, safety clearances and allow enough room for visitors to move around comfortably. How much space is needed will depend on the slide’s size, height, speed and intended users, as well as any relevant safety standards.
Prepare the site
Before installation begins, the site needs to be ready. Depending on the project, this could include levelling the ground, preparing foundations and installing suitable safety surfacing. Planning these works in advance will help avoid unexpected delays once installation starts.
Installation time
Installation times vary depending on the size and complexity of the slide park and the amount of groundwork required.
Smaller projects can be installed relatively quickly, while larger attractions may take several weeks. As a general guide, physical installation could take up to eight weeks, depending on the project.
Choose the right location
Think about how visitors will get to and from the slides. Good positioning can help reduce queues and congestion around entrances and exits.
It’s also worth considering how the slide park connects with existing paths, seating, toilets and nearby attractions so visitors can move easily around the site.
Schedule the work carefully
If you’re adding a slide park to an attraction that is already open, it’s important to think about when the work will take place.
Scheduling construction during quieter periods, off-peak hours or seasonal closures can reduce disruption from noise, temporary work areas and restricted pathways.
On-going maintenance
Once your slide park is open, regular maintenance will help keep it safe and looking its best.
Routine inspections should check joints, fixings, welds and the slide surface for signs of wear or damage. Spotting small issues early can help maintain safety and extend the life of the attraction.
So how easy is it?
Adding a slide park to an existing attraction doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right location, good site preparation and an experienced fibreglass slide manufacturer, the process can be planned around your existing operation and kept as straightforward as possible.
And once installed, a well-designed slide park can add a completely new experience to your attraction without the need to reinvent your entire venue (and all the associated costs).
Interested in learning more about Slide Parks? Click here to speak to the team.