Newcastle continues to upgrade playgrounds as part of its annual improvement program

Newcastle’s Mayfield and New Lambton communities have celebrated the official opening of Dangar Park and Novocastrian Park as part of the City’s annual playground improvement program.

The upgrade sees the former Novocastrian Park playground replaced with new features catering to a range of age groups including a rope climber, swings and a slide.

The newly upgraded Dangar Park playground was expanded to include a new climbing frame and rocker and a new larger swing set to replace the former set which was damaged during storms in 2020. These improvements will also cater to a broader age range of children.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes advised that the upgrades were part of a $1.4 million investment in playgrounds across the city in 2020/21.

Lord Mayor Nelmes notes “our local parks and playgrounds are places that our community can come together to relax and interact.

“I’m delighted that these two upgraded playgrounds at Dangar Park and Novocastrian Park are ready for play, and the turnout at our community openings demonstrate the importance that public spaces play within local neighbourhoods.

“The city’s vast array of playgrounds provide local children and families the opportunity to spend more time outdoors and engage in an active and healthy lifestyle.

Lord Mayor Nelmes added “this year we have invested $1.4 million on playground projects including upgrades to the popular King Edward Park playground and Tighes Hill’s Gross Street Reserve playground which are both due to be completed by the end of June.

“We also delivered a new $1.2 million inclusive playground complete with seating, shelter and BBQ facilities in Mayfield’s Stevenson Park in November 2020.

“Our 2021/22 budget includes a $9.1 million investment in parks, playgrounds, sporting and aquatic facilities including projects like the Wallsend Active Hub and Newcastle Ocean Baths.”

Fletcher’s Kurraka Reserve is set to benefit from additional fitness stations which will be installed in the coming months and planning for a new active hub in Wallsend has also commenced.

Newcastle has 116 playgrounds across the Local Government Area and has an ongoing program of upgrading and renewing any ageing facilities.

Image: Dangar Park playground opening