Community input integral to revamping of Avoca Beach playspace

Central Coast Council undertook community consultation on the revamping of the playspace at Ross Park, Avoca Beach which now offers a variety of active and dynamic play opportunities.

Components of the previous playspace needed to be replaced as it had reached the end of its functional life and was due for a face lift, with some of the existing equipment retained and renovated as part of the upgrade.

Central Coast Council Administrator, Rik Hart said community input was integral to the design of this renewed playspace at Avoca Beach, which is a popular destination for many local families and visitors to the Coast.

Hart noted “Council undertook community consultation to find out what’s important to locals, with this feedback guiding the final design and inclusions of this public asset.

“The refreshed district level playspace offers a variety of active and dynamic play opportunities as well as sensory, creative and natural play areas, and improved accessibility – which aligns with the Central Coast Playspace Strategy.

“This project demonstrates how different levels of government working together can achieve positive community outcomes. With the Australian Government’s funding Council has been able to deliver a playspace that provides health, economic and social benefits for our region.”

This playspace renewal was funded by $300,000 from the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and $10,000 from Council.

Features of this playspace include:

• Swing sets and nest swing

• Slides

• Multi-level climbing unit

• Net climbing unit

• The connecting and circulation pathways into and around the facility are complimented by new rubber softfall and synthetic grass under surfacing to provide greater accessibility.

• Existing established trees remained, with new shade structures installed to provide additional sun protection over the playspace.

• The fencing and gates were replaced for improved safety and to protect children from the adjacent car parks

• Waste and recycling bin enclosures

• Water drinking station

• Shaded picnic table

• Seating

Image: Play equipment at Avoca Beach's Ross Park. Credit: Central Coast Council.