Contract for construction of inclusive playspace at Newcastle’s Gregson Park now open to tender

The City of Newcastle has opened the tender for construction of a new inclusive playspace at Hamilton's historic Gregson Park.

Alongside a variety of traditional play equipment, the playground will feature a range of accessible, sensory and nature-based play options, with traditional Indigenous elements, including a yarning circle to encourage knowledge sharing and a bush tucker garden to enrich learning of native edible plants.

Additional shade, a water feature, formal and informal seating, and footbridges will also feature, complemented by an upgraded, accessible amenities building and new covered picnic area to ensure the park is an inclusive place for all.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the project was identified as a high priority action as part of the adopted Masterplan for the much-loved park.

Lord Mayor Nelmes advised "we know our community values Gregson Park’s rich history and what it offers as a recreational space.

“Extensive community engagement was undertaken in preparing the Gregson Park Masterplan 2021, with feedback into the concept design for a new playspace and upgraded amenities, and consultation with First Nations Australians to appropriately capture Indigenous elements in the design.

"The construction of this playground will be a significant step in delivering our shared vision for Gregson Park, which will ensure it remains a much-loved and well utilised space now and into the future."

Local business owner and Hamilton Business Improvement Association (BIA) Chair Reece Hignell said the new playspace will provide plenty of benefits for the suburb.

"Gregson Park is a popular destination that attracts visitors from Hamilton and the wider Newcastle community," Hignell added.

"This new playground will provide a drawcard for more families and that will hopefully create increased foot traffic for all of our wonderful businesses in and around Beaumont Street."

Tender submissions can now be made via www.tenderlink.com/newcastle

Image. One of the concept designs for the new playspace at Gregson Park.