William's Den Children's Play Adventure

Houlton were approached to get involved in the William's Den project following Hall Construction going into administration.

After consultation with Quantity Surveyor Richard Walker of RIWQS we decided to take up this challenging scheme which we are looking to complete in 12 weeks. We will also be working alongside Native Architects and Mason Clark Associates as Structural Engineers.

The client's marketing and PR agency Wrapped issued the press release below which outlines the details of the project:-

William’s Den, the £3million children’s play adventure near North Cave which is due to open in Spring, has chosen construction firm Houlton to complete its build. The move comes after previous builders Hall Construction recently went into administration. 

William’s Den will be a unique indoor-meets-outdoor family attraction, including a 475sqm ‘Den’ and extensive outdoor play, a 50metre zip wire, den making area and ‘mountains and molehills’ space for kids to run, jump and roll around freely. 

Christian Carver, co-founder at William’s Den comments: “We’ve been planning William’s Den for over four years and it’s exciting to see the build moving forward. We’re delighted that Hull based Houlton are ready for the challenge and on site this week to work towards a Spring launch.”

Jamie Craft, Commercial Director at Houlton comments: ‘‘We were invited to complete William’s Den following the unfortunate news that Hall Construction Group was in administration. We have been working closely with the owners to offer our expertise to complete the works.”

He adds: “We have also recruited Chris Beasley, who has been the Site Manager responsible for the William’s Den build so far. His knowledge of the site will assist greatly to deliver what will be a unique visitor attraction for the area. 

“We are currently engaging with the suppliers, contractors and consultants who have knowledge of the project; and works on site recommenced from Monday 23rd January. 

“It’s a challenging period for achieving completion, but we will make every effort to achieve it.We are looking forward to handing over a quality building that will provide visitors with a fun experience in a fantastic location.’’

Christian Carver, William’s Den co-founder, says: “William’s Den will be a place where children can run, splash, jump and climb their way to the ‘best day ever’. We want kids to have freedom to play outside, get lots of fresh air, always finishing their day at William’s Den with rosy cheeks and big smiles.”

“It’s all about being inspired by kids, yet we want William’s Den to be loved by the grown-ups too, so we’re looking after the young and the young at heart with a quality food and drink offer.” 

He adds: “We know the great British weather will attempt to thwart the fun, so there’ll be an indoor meets outdoor play barn that recreates natural outdoors play inside. The barn comes complete with natural light from huge windows and lots of fresh air from great big sliding doors.” 

Tor Carver, co-founder adds: “Our play experts have created something special to help children learn through active play. William’s Den inspires and challenges children with a natural play experience, giving them freedom and space to play inside and out, whatever the weather. It’s the stuff our childhood memories are made from.”

She adds: “We also cater for children with disabilities by ensuring that some of the play facilities and experiences are accessible at ground floor level. At the heart of it, William’s Den is all about play and having fun.” 

Christian continues: “We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors from the UK and overseas to William’s Den. Tor and I grew up on farms and felt there aren’t enough opportunities out there for kids to be able to play independently, learn through climbing and the freedom of the great outdoors, all in a safe environment. This has been a four-year project and we can’t wait for William’s Den to open.”

Further details available at http://www.williamsden.co.uk/