New Youth Space Opens at Mary Baily Playing Field After Co-Design Project
Young people aged 11-16 collaborated on the design and construction of a unique timber and net structure, funded by Frome Town Council.
By Verity Coombes
••2 min read
AI
Generic image of a contemporary wooden and net structure in a park setting with trees.
A new youth space, designed and built by young people aged 11 to 16, has officially opened at Mary Baily Playing Field in Frome, following a co-design project funded by Frome Town Council.
The unique timber and net structure, intended for relaxation, play, and socialising, marks the culmination of a project delivered by Woodland Tribe, Super Roots, and Neighbourhood Toolbox. The completion was celebrated with the planting of new trees to enhance biodiversity.
Young participants took part in workshops, site visits, and hands-on building sessions since January, learning about design, construction, sustainable materials, and community engagement.
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"One of the most rewarding aspects of this project has been seeing the young people actively involved in every stage of the process, from developing ideas and exploring materials to building the finished structure. The result is a space that reflects their creativity, hard work and commitment, and one that I hope will be enjoyed by young people in Frome for years to come."
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"This project has been about so much more than creating a structure. Throughout the process, the young people showed incredible creativity, empathy and care, thinking deeply about how different people might use the space. Over the weeks it was wonderful to see their confidence grow and friendships develop. Watching them celebrate together and spend time on the structure they had imagined and created was a very special moment, and a real testament to what young people can achieve when they’re given the opportunity to shape something themselves."
The project received support from various local businesses, organisations, and volunteers, including Edward Lees, Valley Sawmills, Frome Town Council’s Ranger Team, Whatley Quarry, Orchardleigh Estate, and Just Grab. Architects Andrew Taberner and Oliver Justice also volunteered their time and expertise.
Further information about Woodland Tribe can be found at www.woodlandtribe.org, Super Roots at www.super-roots.org, and Neighbourhood Toolbox at www.neighbourhoodtoolbox.co.uk. Details about Mary Baily Playing Field and Frome Town Council’s parks and green spaces are available at www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk/parks-and-green-spaces.
Based on information from the official source: Frome Town Council (16/10/2026)
