Creating a safe and stimulating outdoor play area for children involves more than simply selecting the right equipment—what’s underfoot is just as important. At Mainland Aggregates, we supply certified Play Bark and Play Sand, carefully sourced to offer safety, comfort, and endless scope for imaginative play.

Safe Play with Certified Play Bark
Children inevitably fall when climbing, swinging or sliding, so the ground surface beneath play equipment must be able to absorb impact and reduce injury risk. Mainland Aggregates’ Play Bark meets the highest safety standards, providing dependable protection without compromising on natural aesthetics.

Unlike many generic ‘play bark’ products that contain little to no actual bark, ours is made from genuine bark sourced from responsibly managed British forests. It’s certified to BS EN 1176:2008 for impact absorption and BS EN 4790:1978 for flame resistance, so you can be confident it meets the essential safety requirements for playground surfaces.

Its natural texture and shock-absorbing qualities make it ideal for high-traffic play areas—especially beneath swings, slides and climbing frames. Thanks to excellent drainage, it dries quickly after rain, keeping play areas usable throughout the year.

A Natural Aesthetic That Encourages Outdoor Play
Play Bark doesn’t just provide excellent performance—it also looks the part. The warm, earthy tones blend seamlessly into outdoor settings, creating a soft, welcoming environment. It’s also gentle on skin, which is especially important for younger children who spend time crawling or sitting on the surface.

Using natural materials like bark rather than artificial alternatives helps children feel more connected to their surroundings and promotes an appreciation of the natural world.

Play Pit Sand: A Must for Creative Exploration
For younger children, Play Sand isn’t just a surface—it’s a tool for creativity and development. Mainland Aggregates’ Play Pit Sand is specially processed to be soft, clean and safe. It’s washed, screened, and free from sharp particles or contaminants, making it suitable even for sensitive skin.

This smooth, fine sand is perfect for building, digging, and imaginative play. It clumps just enough for moulding shapes, tunnels, and castles—ideal for encouraging both individual creativity and collaborative games.

Sensory Benefits Beyond the Playground
Play Sand offers more than just fun. The act of digging, pouring, and shaping supports fine motor skills and sensory development. That’s why it’s commonly used not only in play areas but also in nurseries, schools, and therapy settings.

Its versatility makes it a practical addition for sandpits, sensory tables, and even indoor creative activities. Free from additives and non-toxic, it offers peace of mind for parents and carers alike.

Build a Better Play Area with Certified Materials
Whether you're planning a public playground, school play area or a private garden project, choosing certified and reliable materials is crucial. Mainland Aggregates’ Play Bark and Play Sand are designed to meet the safety standards required for children's play, while also encouraging creativity, exploration and outdoor fun.

Both products are available in a range of quantities, with convenient UK-wide delivery options. Explore our range today and give your play area the natural foundation it deserves.

Top Tips for Choosing Playground Surfaces

• Always check that impact-absorbing surfaces comply with BS EN 1176:2008.

• Opt for genuine bark instead of generic wood chips for better cushioning and appearance.

• Select washed, screened sand free from impurities to prevent skin irritation.

• Refresh bark surfaces periodically to maintain safety and performance.

• Use a combination of textures—such as bark and sand—to support varied play styles and age groups.