The ACT Government is continuing to roll out suburban infrastructure upgrades across Canberra with consultation now underway on a draft design for the new inner north playground.
"This is part of our biggest ever program to improve suburban infrastructure across our city, with upgrades to local shops and group centres, playgrounds, dog parks and other community facilities," said Minister for Transport and City Services Chris Steel.
"There was a clear gap in the Inner North for a large district level playground. I am pleased to release the draft design for a new destination style playground for the Inner North for consultation ahead of construction starting next year."
The playground will be located at the green space next to Canberra Technology Park, a location chosen for its open green space, proximity to the Phillip Avenue light rail stop, future Garden City Cycle Route and the established facilities at the Watson shops.
It will also complement the local neighbourhood park being constructed along Aspinall Street as part of the Section 76 development.
"This draft design for a new major playground today has been shaped by earlier community feedback with a range of features including play opportunities, recreational elements, gathering and picnicking spaces and key access routes such as accessible parking and paths," said Minister Steel.
Key features of the draft design
1. Play space including swinging, climbing, agility and group play elements.
2. Open grassed area for informal kickabout and gatherings.
3. Two multi-use courts – one full size and one half-size for a range of activities such as tennis, basketball, handball and hopscotch.
4. Amenities including shelter, three-phase power, accessible seating, barbecue, drinking fountains and bins.
5. Accessible toilet/rest room with baby change facilities.
6. Concrete paths, on-street parking spaces, bike parking and two accessible parking spaces.
"The community also told us they wanted the design to reflect the inner north community. Inspiration has been taken from the nearby Mount Majura Nature Reserve and its native Glossy Black-Cockatoo influencing the colour palette of the playground. We are also retaining the existing trees around the perimeter of the site and planting approximately 90 new trees."
Feedback can be provided via YourSay Conversations and is open until 25 October 2023.
"We're upgrading playgrounds across Canberra with significant upgrades set to start construction later this month in Aranda and Ngunnawal with Chisholm, Gordon, Lyons and Kaleen to follow," said Minister Steel.
"This is in addition to work underway to deliver a new community recreation park in Casey and major upgrades to the Tuggeranong Town Park playground as part of the foreshore improvements.
"Play opportunities are also being delivered for our four-legged furry friends, with two new dog parks to look forward to in Franklin and the Lanyon Valley. Construction will start before the end of the year at Franklin and early next year in the Lanyon Valley."
Stay up to date on the suburban infrastructure projects being delivered, including playgrounds and dog parks, at www.cityservices.act.gov.au/bettersuburbs.
