New Grip for Palma's Playgrounds: Safer Play in Camp Redó & Co.

New Grip for Palma's Playgrounds: Safer Play in Camp Redó & Co.

When you stroll through Camp Redó on a morning, the smell of fresh rubber is in the air. Workers with paint splashes on their clothes move calmly and routinely — no big crane, no barriers, rather the quiet precision of a city taking care of the small things. The surfaces at the s’Escorxador playground and in Cotlliure Park are new: non-slip, shock-absorbing and in subdued tones that visually calm the area.

What the work brings

More safety in wet conditions and in falls — that is the official goal. The old coverings are removed, new rubber mats are laid, edges neatly sealed. For parents it's a simple, reassuring message: a softer landing area beneath the climbing frame, fewer loose pebbles, a slide that does not turn into a slip track even in the rain. Overall, the city is investing around €165,000 in six playgrounds across different neighborhoods of Palma.

Early in the morning, a worker reports during his coffee break, the team already started at seven. By midday everything ran smoothly: old tiles out, new mats in, children first cautiously testing with shoes, later barefoot, the slide. No big opening ceremony — but the result is visible and immediately embraced.

Why it stands out

It is the small everyday improvements that restore trust. A woman who called her granddaughter over at the playground sums it up dryly: "You can tell someone has thought this through." Dogs passing by pause briefly; neighbors sit on the low bollards and watch the play. The space feels more accessible, especially on days with changeable weather, when a non-slip surface makes the difference.

Not an end in itself: A city spokesman stressed that it is not only about appearance: "We want to act preventively and reduce accident risks." The measure is part of regular maintenance and a modest upgrade of municipal facilities — simple but effective.

What residents hope for

Rosa, who walks past the square every morning with her dog, praises the result: "No more loose stones, my granddaughter dares to do more now." Other residents see the new material as a starting point: if the ground is already renewed, the city could also review benches, bins and lighting — a fresher area feels friendlier when the surroundings are right. A simple suggestion many would endorse.

Parents should pay attention to on-site notices: some areas may only be entered again after the material has cured. The surface needs time to set properly — a small restriction that ensures longevity.

Looking ahead: Small steps, big impact

These are not spectacular large projects, but careful small-scale work. A city that invests in playground safety sends a clear signal: the places where children play matter. Such measures reduce the risk of accidents, relieve parents' worries somewhat and create public spaces where people feel more comfortable again.

In the coming months the city plans to stagger the work across the six sites — some places will be closed only briefly, others will need a bit more time. For parents this means: keep an eye on short closures, have another nearby playground in mind and be glad when children romp on new, safe surfaces.

No pomp, but a reassuring signal: Palma's new surfaces are an example of a city improving everyday life without much fuss. You hear the birds in the trees, the children's laughter sounds clearer — and the slides simply look more inviting now.