Improvements to 13 playgrounds conducted in Wollongong

Wollongong City Council is improving 13 playgrounds to ensure they are a safe, accessible, and fun environment for Council’s younger community members.

The plans are in line with Council’s Infrastructure Delivery Program 2020-2021 and will see the investment of more than $1.28 million this financial year, to replace the current playgrounds with contemporary play equipment including accessible soft fall surfacing.

Wollongong City Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said all children should have the opportunity to explore safe and quality play facilities noting “Physical activity is essential in our lives, especially for a child’s development, so these playgrounds are a fun way to keep our bodies moving.

“They provide safe and enjoyable opportunities for our residents and visitors to build a healthy lifestyle and are designed to provide space for kids to explore, challenge themselves and have fun.

“Council is committed to investing in the replacement and maintenance of these spaces across the city that provide a central space for many families and friends to meet, socialise, play and laugh. With these works we hope our playgrounds will continue to be enjoyed by our community and visitors alike for many years to come."

The first set of works on Council’s Playground Renewal Program have begun and are expected to be completed over the next two to three weeks, weather permitting at the following playgrounds:

Cormack Street Reserve, Dapto – Contemporary play facilities including new wet-pour rubber soft fall

Bass Park, Mount Ousley – new wet-pour rubber soft fall

Pioneer Beach Estate, Woonona – located at the end of Robert Westmacott Avenue, there are currently two separate sites, which feature a double swing set and climbing elements, are set to come together to make one play facility. New additions include wet-pour rubber soft and, in line with the popular train theme, a new small train play item will also be added.

Other playgrounds set to have works and refurbishments done include:

Fairy Meadow Beach Playground, Fairy Meadow

Strachan Park, Woonona

Doris Avenue, Woonona

Mount Batten Park, Corrimal

Jim Allen Oval, Wombarra

Wiseman Park, Gwynneville

Dobbin Park, Woonona

Ryan Park, Mount Kembla

Barina Park, Lake Heights

Glastonbury Gardens, Austinmer

Works on all playgrounds are anticipated to be completed by the end of June depending on weather conditions.

Image: Playground works at Cormack Street Reserve, Dapto courtesy of www.wollongong.nsw.gov.au/