Work has begun on the construction of City of Newcastle's highly anticipated regional level accessible playspace and waterplay area at Foreshore Park.
The project is the centrepiece of the Harbour Foreshore Masterplan and will deliver a flagship destination for inclusive recreation that celebrates the city's industrial, maritime and Indigenous heritage.
An artist's impression of the industrial themed play structure that will be built at Foreshore Park, which includes an accessible ramp to the first level of the tower.
City of Newcastle awarded a tender for the detailed design and construction of the project to Regal Innovations at the March Council meeting, with the playspace expected to be completed by late next year.
Executive Manager Community and Recreation Lynn Duffy said City of Newcastle was committed to providing enhanced recreational opportunities for all members of the community.
"Providing access to quality community spaces is a key commitment in our Community Strategic Plan as we deliver our shared vision for Newcastle to be a liveable, sustainable, inclusive, global city," Ms Duffy said.
"Our flagship Foreshore Park Livvi's Place inclusive playspace and waterplay area will offer valuable opportunities for intergenerational community building, positively supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of residents and visitors."
The inclusive playspace project is the result of more than five years of input from the community.
Feedback on the detailed design was received from the Guraki Aboriginal Standing Committee, an accessibility working group established by City of Newcastle for the project, and the Touched by Olivia Foundation, a charity dedicated to the creation of inclusive playspaces across Australia.
It was designed in accordance with the NSW Government's Everyone Can Play guidelines and will promote intergenerational, inclusive play, with opportunities for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Justine Perkins, Founder of Touched by Olivia, and Livvi's Mum, said play is important and beneficial for everyone.
"This Livvi's Place design is truly inclusive and intergenerational and has a wonderful connection to place," Ms Perkins said.
"City of Newcastle has been a fantastic partner. They have been committed to really listening to the children, youth and community and ensuring co-creation from the start.
"This playspace is a testament to their understanding that we all want to and need to be able to get outdoors and play together, with others, in our community to ensure we live happier, healthier lives."
Located at the western end of Foreshore Park, the playspace will feature four separate zones including junior and toddler areas, water and nature-based play areas and quiet spaces, connected via accessible paths, seating, shade, gardens and lawns.
Bespoke playground equipment will add to its distinctly Newcastle character, including a central whale-themed swing set and picnic area paying tribute to the city's Worimi and Awabakal heritage.
An artist's impression of the waterplay area that will be built at part of the Foreshore Park inclusive playspace.
The waterplay area will be linked to Newcastle's maritime history and coastal ecologies, while an elevated "nuts and bolts" play structure will symbolise Newcastle's strong industrial ties and include an accessible ramp to the first level of the tower.
An accessible slide, sandpit, carousel and sensory pathway are among the other key features of the inclusive design.
Navigation through the space will be made easier with a logical and accessible path of travel, while charging points for wheelchairs and mobility devices are also included.
The playspace will be complemented by a fully accessible amenities building and kiosk, which is currently under construction in Foreshore Park to serve the broader precinct. It includes unisex ambulant toilets, a parent's change room, and a Changing Places facility.
The Foreshore Park projects are supported by the NSW Government, Variety the Children's Charity, the Touched by Olivia Foundation and the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund.
