New inclusive $6.4 million play space opens in Bankstown

The new $6.4 million ‘Ian Stromborg Play Space’, named after a former Bankstown Mayor, has opened in Bankstown’s CBD located south west of Sydney.

The NSW Government contributed $5.5 million in funding towards the project.

In a partnership with the NSW Government’s Public Spaces Legacy Program and City of Canterbury Bankstown, the project has transformed Paul Keating Park and breathed new life into the much-loved green space.

The play space was designed with the community’s ideas at heart after extensive consultation in 2021. Feedback showed that the community wanted creativity, fun and nature to be a key part of the experience for people of all ages when they come together at Paul Keating Park.

The new Play Space has been designed for people of all ages and abilities and will be a favourite recreational space for families.

Some of the family-friendly features include a hero play tower, which resembles a banksia pod, super-slide, water play feature and interactive nature play elements.

Parents can relax and unwind with new hammock and hang out spaces, while the new amenities building provides convenient facilities for a hassle-free day out.

The new look play space was officially opened by Canterbury-Bankstown Mayor Bilal El-Hayek and Ian Stromborg OAM on Thursday 25th July.

Mayor El-Hayek said the new play space will complement the adjoining Western Sydney University Campus, the new Bankstown Metro and the $1.3 billion Bankstown-Lidcombe hospital.

Mayor El-Hayek shared “this project is part of our vision to establish Paul Keating Park as a premier community destination.

“As our City grows, we are ensuring we provide the facilities and open spaces for all to enjoy.

“I have no doubt the kids are going to love the new play equipment and we’ll see the whole area come to life with activity. The rejuvenated space will also be perfect for events and marketplaces.”

NSW Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully added “The new Ian Stromborg Play Space at Paul Keating Park gives local families and visitors a fun and inclusive community facility to enjoy.

“Our Government is committed to working with councils to invest in public open spaces and recreational infrastructure.”