New playground Kidspark” in Lichtenberg: concrete walls as noise protection!

New playground Kidspark” in Lichtenberg: concrete walls as noise protection!

In Lichtenberg, a district of Berlin, a new playground called “Kidspark” is being built. The project is still in its early stages, but construction work began last Saturday. The playground, which raises many questions regarding its design and functionality, is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025. Bild has published this information.

The playground will be built behind 3.50 meter high concrete walls that will act as a noise barrier. This measure serves to shield both the adjacent daycare center and the playground itself from the noise of the nearby railway systems. Climbing and bouldering areas are planned on the inside of the concrete wall, which will be designed in eye-catching colors to arouse children's interest. The target group is primarily children between the ages of three and ten. A budget of 850,000 euros is planned for the entire project, which will be financed from funding from the Sustainable Renewal Program and district funds.

Public concerns and challenges

However, residents express concerns about the appearance and functionality of these noise protection measures. It remains to be seen how these concerns will impact neighborhood acceptance of the playground.

In this context, it is important to mention that the planning and construction of playgrounds are always bound to certain standards. In October 2020, DIN 18034-1 was published, which specifies requirements for the planning, construction and operation of playgrounds. This standard, which the DIN Consumer Council contributed to, takes into account the latest planning and play pedagogical findings. It is important that the standard also includes aspects of accessibility and inclusion in order to enable all people, regardless of their abilities, to access gaming offerings. The standard therefore emphasizes the principles of accessibility and demands that all users, whether with or without disabilities, are challenged and can play safely. Those responsible should take these aspects into account when designing new playgrounds, such as the “Kidspark”.

The importance of inclusion and accessibility

In addition, work is underway on the new technical specification DIN/TS 18034-2, which is scheduled to be published in February 2024. This pre-standard supplements the existing DIN 18034-1 with criteria for accessibility and inclusion. An important aim of this standard is to support planners and operators in designing inclusive play spaces so that different skills and abilities can be addressed. The standard also specifies specific requirements for barrier-free access, the networking of play stations and the promotion of social interactions.

The discussion about the “Kidspark” in Lichtenberg not only reflects local interests, but also raises larger questions about the implementation of inclusion and accessibility in urban planning. It remains to be seen how the standards and regulations will be implemented in this specific project and what the community's reaction will be. Further information on the standards and the associated requirements can be found on the respective websites [DIN]. BFB can be found.