9695 - Play area improvements (Phase 3) - The Runnel at Bowthorpe in Norwich - AWARD

Norwich City Council is seeking a single contractor to construct new paths, perimeter fencing and to supply and install four new pieces of play equipment at the Runnel open space and play area at Bowthorpe, Norwich.

The Runnel open space and play area (the site) is situated at the centre of the existing Three Score development at Bowthorpe in Norwich, it is surrounded by mixed private and social housing. The site is adjacent to and accessible from Sukey Way, Bowthorpe, Norwich NR5 9NZ.

The site is divided into quarters by hard surfaced cycle/footpaths. The play area is in the south-eastern quadrant. Phase 1 of the improvements was completed in July 2017 as . The contract for Phase 2 has been awarded and the installation of a multi-use games area (MUGA) will commence September 2017.

The current project proposal (Phase 3) of the enhancement of The Runnel, public open space and play area is for the provision of new play equipment, fencing and path works. The project will be managed by Norwich City Council and has been developed through consultation with key stakeholders and in line with Bowthorpe Open Spaces Investment Plan.

Phase 3 covers the provision of new play equipment, fencing and path works to secure the play areas from dog walkers. The 'play' quadrant is currently enclosed with bow-top fencing and associated hedging, it has four entrance gates and there are established rights of way through the area which are regularly used by dog walkers. The asphalt footpaths within the play area are in poor condition with tree roots presenting trip hazards