Adventure time for little locals

A NEW two-and-a-half-acre park, with adventure playground, is set to be established in Lucas.

Designed for young explorers, the playground will include a seven-metre-tall climbable birds nest tower with ropes, ladders, and nets, a monkey puzzle tree, a bamboo playhouse, a Bellevue tower with bridges and adjoining rooms, large tunnel and small slides, swings, a sand pit and digger, and kick and play space.

Landscape works will soon begin at the site, which is next to the future Loreto College Lucas campus on Cuthberts Road.

Integra project development manager Darren Trigg said the tailored playground and its surrounds could rival what’s on offer at Lucas Central Park.

“The new Lucas Park further expands on the connected community at Lucas,” he said.

“With proximity to the Ballarat-Skipton rail trail and the walking and rail trails that link through the Lucas open space corridor, the new park will be a key destination for families.

“The new park with its natural wood features, extensive planting, open spaces, areas for relaxation and some world-first play equipment, compliments the seven existing playgrounds located throughout Lucas.

“Integra are excited to be able to introduce a new inclusive, active, and enticing space for kids and parents of all ages which will further enhance the vibrant Lucas community.”

Hundreds of oak, elm, gum, and maple trees, thousands of flax, callistemon, correas, coastal rosemary, and woolly tea-tree plants, and grasses, will be planted in the park, and picnic tables, benches, seats, rubbish bins, a drinking fountain, and shelter will be installed throughout.