Delivering a Playground Fit For a Legend

Jupiter Play and Leisure - Within Park Play Area

Uncovering the history of Within Park

Nestled along the banks of the River Ness, Whin Park Play Area is flooded with history. Since 1923, the land has been owned by Inverness Town Council and has undergone significant change with the introduction of a boating pond and miniature railway which utilises the original Ness Islands bridges built in 1829.

With reported sightings of the legendary Loch Ness Monster spanning across centuries, the site has drawn in countless visitors from across the world. But at the heart of these myths and legends, one thing has stayed the same: the community of Inverness.

Used by both local and international visitors, the existing play space at Whin Park struggled to keep up with the demand and continuous usage. The Highland Council knew it was time to breathe new life into the area and decided to open the park to tender.

The proposed designs needed to offer unique play opportunities for all users. A destination play area where users could spend an entire day, whilst also taking advantage of the park’s other facilities. This led our team to develop the concept of ‘The Hunt for Nessie’; combining all The Highland Council’s requirements whilst providing Jupiter Play’s signature WOW factor and unique theming.

As part of the tender process our designs went up against those from other play companies in a public vote, giving the community the chance to decide what they wanted for themselves. The response was incredible, with our concept (pictured above) winning with over 80% of the votes! 

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