FAQs

We have heard from the community that a playspace is needed in this area. There have been requests from the community over several years; we now have been allocated funds to deliver new facilities in areas of need: this is the first space for Mitchell Shire to address gaps.

Open space provision standards state that local park facilities should be provided within 400m/walking distance of most residences in urban residential areas.

The nearest playspaces are in Link Reserve, Centenary Reserve and The Elms Reserve. All are substantially further than 400m walking distance, meaning this area has a gap in open space facility provision which we are now addressing.

All open spaces in the area have been explored and this was determined to be most suitable. While there are good linear spaces along the waterways in this area, the areas with a little more space are very exposed and in close proximity to roads. This site has a bit more space, and the slope away from the road provides and increased separation/reduces risk.

This will be developed as a local park facility. Wherever possible Council seeks to provide:

• accessible paths,
• seating,
• play equipment/opportunities
• picnic settings
• drinking water
• bins
• planting
• shade trees

Other higher-order facilities are typically designated in larger parks or more central locations.

In terms of play equipment, we try to provide opportunities for 1-12 year olds in most playspaces. We know swings are always popular, so we always provide these, and will include a nest/basket swing as well as a seat for toddler older children/adults. Other equipment varies, but usually we try to provide a diversity of different features for fun such as climbing, balancing, sliding, spinning, rocking, nature and sensory play, and imaginative play

Our budget, and the space available is limited. Long term maintenance and replacement costs are also a consideration. In this space we won’t be able to provide:

• bigger (and louder) facilities such as a basketball half court or skate facilities
• open grassed ball play/goals: but there are other areas than can provide this opportunity elsewhere along the creek
• Shade sails are only considered for district and regional playspaces, not local parks with lower visitation levels. We hope to provide a picnic shelter if budget permits. Picnic shelter provide solid shade for all park users and add value in both sun and wet weather, require much less maintenance and have a longer lifespan than shade sails.
• Lighting: local parks are intended for use during daylight hours.

In 2025 and 2026. Depending on costs these may need to be delivered over more than one financial year

• We hope children will play in the whole park, not just on the equipment, and this site offers good opportunity for nature play. As such we do not want to fence the equipment from the rest of the reserve.
• The reserve edge adjoining the road has a post and pipe barrier. Combined with the slope and the placement of the playspace downslope from the road help discourage and slow any children wishing to move towards the road.
• Young children should be supervised by a responsible adult carer.