A public sector commercial planning and development consultancy is playing a key role in helping communities to stay healthy with the delivery of several projects in the sector.

apT, the first organisation of its kind to be established in the West Midlands, has led the transformation of a dated 20-year-old play area in Donnington, Telford, to create a larger more functional space and active play by introducing exciting new equipment

Working in partnership with the local community, apT led on the consultation process and grant application to fund the project.

It was also commissioned to deliver a new play area in Newport, Shropshire, after local children described existing facilities as “old and boring”.

It managed a design and build fixed price tender, funded by Section 106 monies, and a public consultation process for the project.

The winning design, chosen by the community following a vote by children in local schools, features a low maintenance design including two multi units, swings, a spinning dish, see saw and is on a grass mat to provide a safer play surface.

apT, a commercial consultancy which is part of Telford & Wrekin Council, is now working with national house builder David Wilson Homes on a further Healthy Spaces project as well as an outdoor gym, two large skate park projects and several more play area revamps.

Derek Owen, the Healthy Spaces Design Specialist at apT, said it was developing an increasing client base in the outdoor play and recreation sector.

“There is now a much greater emphasis on keeping communities healthy and active through play, parks, open spaces, and recreation and sports facilities.

“We have a team with a wealth of experience across all aspects of the planning sector so we can offer complete management for any project including community consultation, designing the space and the build. Our background in the public sector gives us an insight into the challenges that can be experienced and allows us to offer a streamlined service to our clients.

“We are excited about future growth in the Healthy Spaces arena and are aiming for an increasing number of contract wins in the sector.”

apT’s services include professional help and guidance for planning, both preparing and submitting planning applications, the preparation of policy and support promoting sites in highway design and adoptions and building regulations.

It also offers more specialist consultancy for built heritage conservation, urban design, ecological conservation, strategic housing and play and recreational specialists.

apT can work with everyone from homeowners through to residential and commercial developers, land agents, local authorities, and other organisations. For more information go to www.apt-group.co.uk.