Work has begun on a $4.5 million major transformation of Thomas H Halton Park in Croudace Bay.
The works, guided by the Thomas H Halton Park Master Plan, involve the construction of a new accessible play space, a new amenities block, outdoor fitness equipment and exercise circuit, and fenced and unfenced off-leash dog exercise areas.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Cr Kay Fraser said there is so much to look forward to as the Master Plan works begin this week on the shores of Lake Macquarie.
"The Master Plan was developed closely with the Lake Macquarie community, and I am excited to see works get underway," Cr Fraser said.
"This project will deliver a new and exciting lakeside space for residents and visitors to our City to enjoy for years to come."
The centre piece of the foreshore's transformation is a new accessible play space featuring an accessible carousel, giant nest swing, water play area, custom ship and sensory play equipment.
Cr Fraser said ensuring Lake Macquarie City offers people of all ages, abilities and cultural backgrounds access to play spaces is essential.
"What an amazing addition to Thomas H Halton Park, this new playground will be unique, exciting, fun and most of all accessible. I imagine many hours will be spent here by local families once the project is complete," Cr Fraser said.
"Daily play and social connection are very important to children's development.
Accessible play equipment not only helps young people with disability to socialise and make new friends, it also allows them to stay active."
The inclusive playspace at Thomas H Halton Park, jointly funded by the NSW Government's 'Everyone Can Play' Grant and Council, will see a variety of accessible play equipment installed as part of the ongoing implementation of the Park's Master Plan adopted in June 2017.
Council's Manager Assets Management Brendan Callander said a key feature of the playground is its accessibility for kids and families of all abilities.
"It's great that Council can provide accessible play spaces that provide connection and social benefits, as well as learning through fun and play, which is so beneficial for our kids. We're looking forward to getting construction underway and we hope to have the project completed in time for the summer school holidays later this year," Mr Callander said.
The project will include:
- construction of a completely fenced play space with accessible latches on gates at multiple entry points
- an accessible carousel, giant nest swing, water play area and custom ship
- sensory play equipment
- quiet spaces for children to have away from busy areas of the play space
- new pathways, picnic shelters, tables and barbecues
- outdoor fitness equipment and exercise circuit
- new fenced off-leash dog exercise area in addition to the existing unfenced dog exercise area
- new turf and natural play elements including sandstone logs and boulders
- new accessible amenities building
- formalised car park with line-marking
Construction on the master plan is expected to be completed in December 2021.
Works are also underway on a new plaza skate park, another key feature of the Master Plan. The skate park is expected to be completed by mid-2021.
The Master Plan works are funded by development contributions.
