Municipality of Thames Centre, Ontario

Dorchester Dream Park

When a small community comes together, big things happen.

Openspace is proud to have partnered with the Dorchester Inclusive Park Committee and the Municipality of Thames Centre to bring their vision of an inclusive, play-for-all playground to life. This project reflects our commitment to creating innovative, accessible play spaces where people of all ages and abilities feel welcome, valued, and respected.

Key Partners

Municipality of Thames Centre Steve MacDonald and Devon Brown
Dorchester Inclusive Park Committee
Installed June 2022

Objectives

Universally inclusive playground

In early 2022, the Dorchester Inclusive Park Committee launched an initiative to establish the first universally inclusive playground in Thames Centre. With funding from community efforts, grants, and municipal support, an RFP was released, and Openspace was selected as the successful proponent.

Process

Full scope and seamless execution

Collaborating closely with the Inclusive Park Committee, the Accessibility Advisory Committee and the municipality, we designed a playground that prioritized universal access and sensory-rich experiences.

Our scope included excavation, equipment installation, curbing, concrete pads for benches, surfacing preparation, rubber and wood surfacing, third-party inspection, and site restoration.

The project was completed seamlessly, with installation beginning in June 2022 and the grand opening held on August 11, 2022. The playground has been warmly embraced by the community as is now a favourite gathering place for local residents and summer camps from the neighbouring recreation complex.

Key Features

A few of the highlights

Accessible Decks

Ramps provide universal access, allowing all users to experience elevated play areas.

The Gondola

Rocking right to left providing stimulating space for children and adults with impaired mobility to enjoy sensory stimulation together.

Communication Board

Designed to empower non-verbal users to facilitate interaction and engagement.

Spinning Chair with Back Support

Inclusive, accessible spinning fun for users of all abilities.

Climbing Circuit

Climbing allows children to develop and improve their motor skills, special awareness, and problem-solving skills.

Sensory Play

The playground incorporates a dedicated musical space, featuring instruments that offer sensory engagement and creative exploration.

Stand Up Teeter Totter

A great feature for older children to challenge their balance and create an opportunity for face to face social interaction.

Enhanced Surfacing

A mix of rubber surfacing and engineered wood fiber, with rubber extended into the swing area to ensure seamless access to the Shell Seat and Accessible Seat.

Step Markers

A small detail that makes a big difference. Contrasting makers for accessibility.

"...From the beginning of this project to the very end, Openspace has been phenomenal to deal with in all aspects. Their knowledge and communication is amazing, their ability to work with us and our very involved community group has shown them to be incredibly patient and understanding and the quality of their work could not be better. Janet and her team were always readily available whenever I had a question. They delivered this project on time and on budget. For me, it has been evident from the beginning that Openspace is not simply in the business of playgrounds and the like, instead, this is truly their passion. The amenity that Openspace has provided our community is amazing, it is loved and enjoyed by countless children & families every single day and has become a cornerstone for our community…"

Steve Macdonald, (Director of Community Services & Facilities - Municipality of Thames Centre)

End Results

A lasting impact for the whole community

This project exemplifies Openspace’s commitment to creating spaces that foster inclusivity, wellness, and community connection. We are honoured to have contributed to Thames Centre’s vision and excited to carry this spirit forward in future projects.