Orange City Council is calling for expressions of interest to establish and operate a permanent indoor playground in Orange.
Council wants to hear from parties interested in providing an indoor playground primarily for children aged up to 8 years. Respondents may also wish to include a secondary play area for children aged 8-13 or 8 to 16.
Orange Mayor Tony Mileto said the facility should meet the needs of our growing city and flourishing visitor economy.
"When Orange City Council undertook engagement for the new Community Strategic Plan the establishment of a permanent indoor playground was a message we heard over and over again. This EOI is about acting on what we heard," Cr Mileto said.
Council is willing to work with prospective operators and to provide financial support for the establishment and operation of the facility. The level of support needed from Council would be a key element in assessing the EOI.
Council has an existing building, known as the Air Hanger at Redmond Place, which may form part of the Expression of Interest. The building is currently used by a number of service clubs as a storage area for equipment. These clubs provide an incredibly important role in supporting the Orange community through their charitable activities. If the hangar was found to be a viable play space, Council is committed to finding a suitable new home for the service clubs.
The design of the play space should include a broad range of accessible elements that offer physical, social and solo play, sensory and cognitive activities and free space. Ideally the playground would include ancillary features such as café facilities, tables and seating for adults, and the ability to conduct birthday parties.
Submissions must be received by 5pm 10 December 2025.
