In Santpoort-Noord, a neighbourhood within the Dutch municipality of Velsen, a well-used playground has been given a new future. What was once an ageing play area with worn artificial grass and outdated facilities has been transformed into a modern, inviting outdoor space where children and families can gather, play and connect.
The renovation was realised through a close collaboration between Yalp and Vario Fields, combining expertise in play environments, community engagement and surface solutions.
From Ageing Playground to Modern Community Space
Over time, the existing playground had begun to show signs of wear. The artificial grass surface had reached the end of its lifespan and the overall play environment no longer reflected the quality and safety standards expected by today’s communities.
Rather than simply replacing individual elements, the project partners took a broader approach. The goal was to create a play environment that would not only be safer and more attractive but also contribute to the long-term sustainability ambitions of the municipality.
The result is a renewed playground where play, movement and social interaction come together in a welcoming outdoor environment.
A Community-Driven Approach
One of the strengths of the project was the active involvement of local residents.
Before work began, Yalp and the municipality organised a community consultation session, giving residents the opportunity to share ideas, preferences and wishes for the renewed playground. This collaborative process ensured that the final design reflected the needs of the people who use the space every day.
Marcel Nijveld, Account Manager at Yalp, explains:
Transparency is an important value for us. We say what we do and we do what we say. By involving the local community from the beginning, we were able to develop a solution that truly fits the neighbourhood.
This approach strengthens local ownership and helps create public spaces that remain relevant and valued for years to come.
A Shared Vision for Play and Movement
Yalp and Vario Fields have worked together successfully on numerous projects over the years. Their shared ambition is simple: create outdoor environments that encourage people of all ages to play, move, exercise and connect with one another.
That philosophy is clearly reflected in the Santpoort-Noord project.
The renewed playground has been designed to encourage active play while creating opportunities for social interaction and community engagement. Children can explore, learn and develop through play, while parents and local residents benefit from an attractive and accessible public space.
Surface choice
At the centre of the renovation is the installation of ONE-DNA™ artificial grass, a mono-material surface designed for recycling.
The durable surface creates a clean, attractive and comfortable play environment and is designed with end-of-life recycling in mind. Its single-polymer construction is designed to simplify future recycling, where suitable collection and recycling are available.
Building Stronger Communities
The playground renovation in Santpoort-Noord is more than an infrastructure project. It is an example of what can be achieved when municipalities, specialists and local communities work together towards a shared goal.
The result is a vibrant outdoor space that encourages play, movement, inclusion and social connection.
Projects like this show that investing in playgrounds is also an investment in healthier, stronger and more connected communities.
Looking Ahead
As municipalities continue to seek ways to improve public spaces while reducing environmental impact, the Santpoort-Noord playground provides an inspiring example of how collaboration and material choice come together in a public play space.
The renewed play area is ready for a new generation of children.
Update, October 2026: this article reflects the ONE-DNA™ range at the time of publication, based on polyethylene (PE). ONE-DNA™ now also includes a 100% PO route; see Technology for the current material routes.
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