Playground in Rüstringer Stadtpark, Wilhelmshaven

Children to power!

THE PLAYPLACE MAKERS

70 children were allowed to decide on the design, construction took 22 weeks and “Der Lange Heinrich” is 12 meters high: the inclusive playground in Rüstringer Stadtpark in Wilhelmshaven. Since its opening in October 2024, it has been a magnet for families from Wilhelmshaven – and for North Sea holidaymakers.

The playground makers for the GaLaBau blog ©Martin Rottenkolber

Participation

The playground in Rüstringer Stadtpark is idyllically nestled in Rüstringer Stadtpark and is surrounded by a forest-like backdrop, which creates a particularly family-friendly atmosphere. Its central location makes it a popular destination for both locals and North Sea vacationers.

This area was intended for physical exercise back in 1915 – today it fulfills this purpose in a modern and inclusive way. The spacious meadow areas offer additional space for ball games, picnics and free play.

The city of Wilhelmshaven took an unusual approach to the planning and asked 70 children from the city area to decide on the design of their new playground. The result became the basis for today’s play paradise. Not only educational considerations, but above all the children’s wishes were incorporated into the planning.

Together

The playground in Rüstringer Stadtpark has been designed to be accessible and inclusive so that children with and without disabilities can play together. In the toddler area, there is special equipment for the youngest children as well as a water mud facility for sensory experiences in protected play areas. Older children will find a slide tower as the main attraction, a variety of climbing equipment and challenging exercise options in a separate area.

Other attractions include a spacious sand play area for creative play, a double swing, a trampoline, a turntable and an impressive 30-meter-long zip line.

All play equipment complies with the DIN EN 1176 safety standard, and numerous benches and tables have been installed for the comfort of accompanying persons, providing perfect places to watch and relax.

The heart of the playground is the imposing, 12-metre high play tower “Der Lange Heinrich”. Its name is reminiscent of a historic unloading crane that used to unload ships at the Wilhelmshaven quay – today it “unloads” the children’s thirst for adventure.

Teamwork

The success of the playground in Rüstringer Stadtpark is the result of excellent cooperation between various partners. As the client, Technische Betriebe Wilhelmshaven was responsible for project coordination and implementation. The southern German company Spielplatzgeräte Maier, winner of the design competition, developed and supplied the innovative play equipment and contributed its expertise in inclusive playground concepts.

The Neumann Gusenburger office was responsible for the landscape planning concept and ensured the harmonious integration of the playground into the existing park landscape. DIE SPIELPLATZ-MACHER were responsible for the professional installation of the playground equipment in close cooperation with the garden and landscaping contractor Friedemann Richter. From the crane work to the installation of the equipment and the finishing touches, the cooperation between all those involved ran smoothly – a decisive factor in the success of the project.

Conclusion

Since its grand opening in October 2024, the playground in Rüstringer Stadtpark has become a real attraction. The playground not only attracts families from Wilhelmshaven, but has also become a popular stop for North Sea vacationers. The successful mix of natural surroundings, modern play equipment and inclusive design makes it a special experience for the whole family.

This project is a great example of how public participation, technical expertise and craftsmanship can lead to a result that inspires everyone involved.