London Play

Working for a capital where all children can play

Play on housing estates

Children's first places to play are usually close to home, yet many housing estates, whether managed by the council or a housing association are often not good places to play.

Many public sector landlords make little effort to encourage play, believing they will have fewer complaints to sort out if parents keep their children indoors. Many are unable to distinguish between play, which is a child's right, and anti-social behaviour, which no-one wants.

London Play believes that if children can play out more, then anti-social behaviour amongst teenagers will be lessened, here are some practical examples of action to improve play facilities and opportunities on housing estates, please let us know if you would like ones that you know about included.

But some housing providers take play, sport and recreation seriously. Barnsbury Housing Association, in Islington for example, set aside space for an astro-turf sports pitch, youth shelter and play area when they rebuilt the estate in the late 70's, and enthusiastically maintain it today. Even better, they ensure the road access for residents cars is a 5 mph play street - its easy for them, as they own the private road, it is not a public highway. See the download below for a reprinted cover story from Children Now magazine, which London Play assisted in producing.