Landscape & Urban Design Issue 79 2026 | Page 94

SPORTS & PLAY

WICKSTEED CELEBRATES 150 YEARS OF BRITISH MANUFACTURING AND PLAY INNOVATION

environmental impact through responsible sourcing and production. Many Wicksteed installations have served communities for decades, reflecting not only engineering expertise but also a long-term commitment to sustainable, enduring infrastructure.
From heritage parks to new and revitalised community spaces, our equipment is designed to encourage inclusive, multi-generational use and to create spaces where communities can gather, connect, and thrive.
Here’ s to 150 years of Wicksteed, 150 years of British engineering, and over a century of creating inspiring places to play for generations to come.
In 2026, Wicksteed proudly marks 150 years of British manufacturing in Digby Street, Kettering. Founded in 1876, Wicksteed has built a legacy of engineering excellence, innovation, and quality UK manufacturing that continues to shape our business today. safe, inclusive, and imaginative playground equipment. Today, Wicksteed is proud to be recognised as the UK’ s leading playground equipment manufacturer, supporting local authorities, councils, schools and communities nationwide.
To explore how Britishmanufactured play can support your next play project, our team would be delighted to assist.
Our origins lie in pioneering engineering, from manufacturing the world’ s first hydraulic hacksaw and inventing a bread slicing and buttering machine, to developing early automatic car gearbox technology. This rich history of British engineering innovation laid the foundations for Wicksteed’ s future success. Precision engineering, durability, and a commitment to quality were embedded in our DNA from the very beginning.
In 1918, Wicksteed entered the world of play— a move that would go on to shape generations of childhoods across the UK and beyond. For more than a century, we have remained dedicated to designing and manufacturing high-quality,
As towns and cities continue to evolve, the role of well-designed public spaces has never been more important. Playgrounds are no longer standalone features; they are integral components of thoughtfully designed parks, public realms, and residential developments. Wicksteed works closely with landscape architects, urban designers, and specifiers to ensure play environments complement their surroundings while meeting the highest standards of safety, accessibility, and durability.
Manufacturing in the UK remains central to our identity. Our Kettering facility allows us to maintain rigorous quality control, support local supply chains, and reduce sales @ wicksteed. co. uk 01536 517028
Wicksteed. co. uk
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