City of Newcastle Council will this month start work on the replacement and enhancement of the Lambton Park play space.
Executive Manager Community and Recreation, Lynn Duffy said the work at Lambton Park reflects the Council’s long-term approach to providing quality, inclusive recreation spaces for the community.
“Lambton Park has been a much-loved play space in Newcastle for decades,” Ms Duffy said.
“These upgrades will enhance existing equipment, introduce new play elements and support the enjoyment of the playground for children and families for years to come.
“During the life of our annual renewal program we have upgraded 34 local playgrounds, ensuring facilities remain safe, fun and engaging for children across Newcastle.”
The upgrades will be delivered in two stages to ensure part of the playground remains accessible during construction. The commencing works will form stage one and are expected to be completed mid-year, with stage two scheduled to follow later this year.
Stage one will introduce a range of new equipment designed primarily for children aged two to eight years, including a double swing and nest swing, a small trampoline, spinner, rocker and a main play structure featuring a slide and climbing nets.
The equipment sits amongst mature trees, providing extensive natural shade throughout the park. Inclusive design elements have been incorporated at ground level such as voice tubes and a role-play shop to support users with physical access needs.
The upgraded playground will sit alongside Council’s recent redevelopment of a former 1940s Baby Health Centre. The building is set to reopen its doors as First Light Café on 22 April and will provide access from the rear of the cafe to the playground with a ramp for families, parents with prams and people with mobility needs.
The renewal and upgrade of play equipment at Lambton Park follows the delivery of upgrades at Whistler Parade Reserve in Maryland last month, where new equipment including a see-saw, spinner, rocker, bridges and slides were installed.
The Council has invested more than $1.1 million across six neighbourhood playground projects this year, the highest number completed in a 12 month period since the annual Playground Replacement Program began almost a decade ago.
