A new benchmark for playground upgrades will be set this month when City of Newcastle starts work on the replacement and enhancement of the Lambton Park play space.
City of Newcastle has invested more than $1.1 million across six neighbourhood playground projects this year, the highest number completed in a 12 month period since the annual Playground Replacement Program began almost a decade ago.
Artist’s impression of the planned upgrades for the Lambton Park playground, shown from an aerial view. In addition, City of Newcastle is also on track this year to deliver the city’s first regional-level inclusive play space and waterplay area in Foreshore Park.
Executive Manager Community and Recreation, Lynn Duffy, said the work at Lambton Park reflects City of Newcastle’s long-term approach to providing quality, inclusive recreation spaces for the community.
“Lambton Park has been a much-loved play space in Newcastle for decades,” Ms Duffy said.
“These upgrades will enhance existing equipment, introduce new play elements and support the enjoyment of the playground for children and families for years to come.
“During the life of our annual renewal program we have upgraded 34 local playgrounds, ensuring facilities remain safe, fun and engaging for children across Newcastle.”
The upgrades will be delivered in two stages to ensure part of the playground remains accessible during construction. The commencing works will form stage one and are expected to be completed mid-year, with stage two scheduled to follow later this year.
Stage one will introduce a range of new equipment designed primarily for children aged two to eight years, including a double swing and nest swing, a small trampoline, spinner, rocker and a main play structure featuring a slide and climbing nets.
The equipment sits amongst mature trees, providing extensive natural shade throughout the park. Inclusive design elements have been incorporated at ground level such as voice tubes and a role-play shop to support users with physical access needs.
The upgraded playground will sit alongside City of Newcastle’s recent redevelopment of a former 1940s Baby Health Centre. The building is set to reopen its doors as First Light Café on 22 April and will provide access from the rear of the cafe to the playground with a ramp for families, parents with prams and people with mobility needs.
The renewal and upgrade of play equipment at Lambton Park follows the delivery of upgrades at Whistler Parade Reserve in Maryland last month, where new equipment including a see-saw, spinner, rocker, bridges and slides were installed.
City of Newcastle has also delivered improvements across four other sites this financial year, with Beauford Avenue Reserve in Maryland receiving a new playground and a half‑court basketball area, while updated play equipment was installed at Stockton Swimming Centre.
Upgrades were also completed at Johnson Park in Lambton and Morpeth Road Reserve in Waratah West.