The Happy Planet Play Centre in Baildon near Bradford is a play centre with a difference. A long-held dream for founder Chantelle Buck-Forrest, the centre is designed to create a more calming play and learning space for under 5s, with a strong focus on sensory play using eco elements.

The centre features a number of tactile zones and sensory spaces to encourage nurturing without over-stimulation. From wooden climbing frames to push bikes and sand pits, there’s a lot of variation and plenty of space. Much of the play equipment is made from wood and re-purposed items such as cable reels serving as craft tables.

Originally from London, owner Chantelle Buck-Forrest is inspired the natural world and was keen to set up a play centre that broke from the norm and moved away from bright colours and noisy, hyperactive games and toys. One of the key considerations was how to cover such a large, hard floor area and make it safe, whilst maintaining an ecological ethos. Semi-permanent options, such as artificial grass and recycled rubber crumb wet-pour surfaces were ruled out as these were found to be expensive and difficult to install. Traditional PVC covered crash mats were potentially an option, but these were only available in bright colours and were not considered eco-friendly.

Happy Planet then discovered the ideal option at Soft Floor KIDS. Their interlocking 60cm soft foam cork play mats were a perfect match for the play centre ethos. Their soft EVA foam base provide a safe spongy feel and protect against bumps and falls, whilst their natural cork top surface brings an authentic look and feel. The mats are super-easy to DIY install and can be cleaned or replaced easily.

Natural Cork EVA Foam Play Mats | Soft Floor KIDS

The Happy Planet Play Centre in Baild has gone from strength to strength, becoming an important part of the local community. It hosts a thriving café, selling all the usual refreshments including lots of local produce from independent suppliers. For more information, please visit https://letsbookfor.com/happy-planet-play-centre.

When asked for her feedback, Chantelle said:

“We were extremely pleased to find Soft Floor KIDS and their range of EVA foam backed natural cork mats. The mats matched our ethos entirely and were a joy to install. They totally transformed the place! The service I received was second to none!”

Interlocking EVA foam mats from SOFTFLOOR KIDS are available in 30cm or 60cm squares in a range of eye-catching colours to match your theme. At a generous 12mm thick, they provide excellent cushioned support and fall protection for hard floors. They can be laid quickly and cleaned easily, and have a strong interlocking design to improve slip-resistance. Available directly from the SOFTFLOOR KIDS website: softfloorkids.co.uk or call 01206 390 570 to speak to a sales adviser who will make sure you get the right mat for your needs.