A $2.4 million upgrade to the Orange Adventure Playground is set to begin in May.
Daracon Landscaping will carry out the project, which includes dismantling the old playground and constructing a new playground and splash park.
Orange Sport and Recreation Community Committee Chair Tammy Greenhalgh is looking forward to seeing work begin on upgrading the popular facility.
"The Adventure Playground has provided decades of enjoyment, but after 22 years of use and exposure to the elements the timber structure is deteriorating and community demand for an upgraded facility has increased," Cr Greenhalgh said.
"I can't wait to see local families enjoying a new and improved playground."
Due to the deteriorating condition of the existing playground the first stage of the project focuses on upgrading the main play areas and central meeting area, as well as the installation of a splash park.
Funding for stage one has come from three NSW Government grants and Orange City Council:
• $1.256 million – NSW Government's Resources for Regions Program
• $400,000 – NSW Government's Stronger Country Communities Fund (splash park)
• $485,280 - NSW Government's Places to Play Grant
• $ 292,506 – Orange City Council
The upgrade was designed by consultants Civille Pty Ltd after consultation with the community and the original Adventure Playground committee. Most of the improvements will be delivered in the first stage of the project and further stages of the design will be delivered depending on future funding availability.
Parts of the original playground that are suitable for reuse have been included in the new design, including the Liberty Swing, wooden turrets and other timber features.
Fence pickets engraved with the names of residents who donated to the original playground will be available for collection once they have been removed. Council will advise the community on the process for this when the time comes. Any pickets not collected and in suitable condition will be reused in the new playground.
The first stage of the upgrade is estimated to be finished in December, weather permitting.
