City of Newcastle is delivering new places to play across the city, with the first two playground upgrades now open as part of a $750,000 investment this financial year.
Local families were treated to a community celebration at Maryland today to officially mark the completion of the new playground and half-court basketball space at Beauford Avenue Reserve.
Councillors Callum Pull, Deahnna Richardson, Cr Elizabeth Adamczyk join City of Newcastle Executive Manager Community and Recreation Lynn Duffy, parents and children to celebrate the completion of the playground upgrade at Beauford Avenue Reserve in Maryland.It follows the installation of a refreshed playground at Stockton Swimming Centre, which opened in time for the start of the swimming season last month.
Work is also progressing at the Morpeth Road Reserve playground at Waratah, while construction at Johnson Park playground at Lambton is set to commence in the coming months.
Artist's impression of the new playground to be built at Johnson Park Playground Lambton.Chief Executive Officer Jeremy Bath said City of Newcastle is committed to enhancing recreational opportunities for the community.
"Through our annual Playground Replacement Program we've been able to upgrade, replace or improve 28 popular parks and recreational areas across the region since 2018, ensuring every suburb has access to safe, modern and inclusive recreational facilities," Mr Bath said.
"This year we're investing $750,000 into four neighbourhood playground projects, with two already complete and another two on their way for communities to enjoy.
"It's part of a broader investment in outdoor recreation, with our 2025/26 Budget also including $10 million for the Foreshore Park inclusive playspace, Newcastle's first regional-level playground.
"I can't wait to see it open and attracting thousands of people to the east end."
City of Newcastle has invested more than $14 million into playground projects across Newcastle during the past seven years.
City of Newcastle Executive Manager Community and Recreation, Lynn Duffy, said the Playground Replacement Program plays an important role in supporting community wellbeing.
"Playgrounds do more than provide equipment for children, they bring people together, encourage physical activity and support social and emotional development," Ms Duffy said.
"The Maryland playground now features a variety of new play equipment designed to spark creativity and encourage physical development in younger children, alongside a new half-court basketball area for older kids and teens.
"The improvements include accessible pathways, shaded seating and soft-fall surfacing to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all users.
"Stockton families are also benefitting from a recently completed upgrade to the recreation space at the swimming centre, which features upgraded play equipment, family-friendly barbecue facilities, shaded picnic areas and accessible footpaths."
City of Newcastle maintains 116 playgrounds across the local government area.
Visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/works to stay up to date on progress on playgrounds in your area.
