City of Newcastle Council 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 yesterday to officially mark the completion of the new playground and half-court basketball space at Beauford Avenue Reserve.
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.
CEO, Jeremy Bath said the Council was 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.”
The Council has invested more than $14 million into playground projects across Newcastle during the past seven years.
Council Executive Manager Community and Recreation, Lynn Duffy said the Playground Replacement Program played 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 Council maintains 116 playgrounds across the local government area.
