Creating a safe, engaging outdoor play space for children is about more than just choosing the right equipment. What’s underfoot matters just as much. At Mainland Aggregates, we supply certified Play Bark and Play Sand, carefully sourced to ensure safety, comfort, and endless opportunities for imaginative play. 

Safer Play with Certified Play Bark 
When children are climbing, swinging, or sliding, falls are inevitable. That’s why the surface below play equipment needs to cushion impact and reduce injury risks. Mainland Aggregates’ Play Bark meets the highest safety standards, offering reliable protection without compromising on appearance. 
  
Unlike many generic ‘play bark’ products that often contain little to no actual bark, our Play Bark is made from genuine bark sourced from responsibly managed British forests. It’s been tested and certified to BSEN 1176:2008 for impact attenuation and BSEN 4790:1978 for flame resistance, giving peace of mind that it’s not only soft underfoot but also meets key safety regulations for playground surfaces. 
  
The natural texture and shock-absorbing properties make this particular mulch ideal for high-traffic play zones - especially beneath climbing frames, slides, or swings where falls are more likely. Thanks to its excellent drainage, it stays drier and more usable after rain, helping to keep outdoor areas accessible all year round. 
  
The Added Appeal of Natural Materials 
Play Bark doesn’t just perform well - it looks good too. The warm, earthy tones of natural bark blend beautifully into outdoor environments, creating a soft and welcoming setting. It’s gentle on skin, which is important for young children who spend time crawling, kneeling, or playing directly on the surface. 
  
Maintaining a natural aesthetic in a playground also helps connect children to nature, offering a more grounded experience than artificial rubber tiles or synthetic grass. 
  
Play Pit Sand: A Creative Playground Essential 
For younger children especially, Play Sand is more than just a filler - it’s a creative medium. Mainland Aggregates' Play Pit Sand is carefully processed to be soft, clean, and safe. It’s thoroughly washed, screened, and free from sharp particles or contaminants, making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin. 
  
This fine, smooth sand is ideal for building sandcastles, digging, and imaginative sensory play. It clumps together just enough for sculpting, allowing children to create shapes, tunnels, and landscapes with ease - perfect for both solo exploration and group play. 
  
Promoting Sensory Development 
Play Sand offers more than just entertainment. The tactile experience of digging, pouring, and moulding sand supports fine motor skills development and sensory integration. These benefits make it a popular feature not only in playgrounds but also in nurseries, schools, and therapeutic environments. 
  
It’s also incredibly versatile because it can be used in sandpits, sensory tables, and even indoor craft activities. And because it’s non-toxic and free from additives, parents and carers can relax knowing their children are playing safely. 
  
Build a Better Playground with the Right Materials 
Whether you're managing a public playground, designing a school play area, or installing a backyard adventure zone, choosing certified materials is a must. Mainland Aggregates’ Play Bark and Play Sand are designed to meet the high standards required for children’s safety while also encouraging creativity, sensory development, and fun. 
  
We supply both products in a range of quantities, with convenient delivery options across the UK. Explore our range today to give your play area the foundation it deserves. 

Top Tips for Choosing Playground Surfaces: 
  
Always check for BSEN 1176:2008 compliance when selecting impact-absorbing surfaces. 
  
Use natural bark rather than generic wood chips for better cushioning and visual appeal. 
  
Choose washed, screened sand free from impurities to avoid irritation or injury. 
  
Refresh bark surfaces regularly to maintain depth and performance. 
  
Combine different textures (like bark and sand) to cater to various age groups and play styles.