Williams Park Play Park, Runcorn

Site Activation

This small corner of Runcorn has become a much-loved play space for local children, with many travelling considerable distances by bike to spend time here. In many ways, it functions as a community backyard. It simply happens to have a passionate mother and Playworker living next door.

While this space belongs entirely to the children who use it, I am deeply committed to protecting and preserving their right to play. Drawing on my professional playwork practice, I help maintain a consistent and supportive presence within the space, alongside many other adults in the local community who quietly champion children's play.

What makes this space truly special is the collective care it receives. There are many protectors of play here. Older residents sit nearby and delight in watching children at play. Neighbours help keep the area welcoming and safe. One local gentleman regularly collects litter and resets the loose parts that children have brought to the space, ensuring they remain available for others to enjoy.

The play environment has evolved organically through children's participation, imagination and community support. However, the visibility of children's play in public spaces is not always valued. Loose parts and play resources are frequently removed during maintenance activities, limiting children's ability to shape and transform the space themselves.

Despite these challenges, Williams Park continues to demonstrate what is possible when a community embraces children's right to play. It stands as a living example of how public spaces can foster connection, belonging, independence and play when children are given the freedom to make them their own.