Input wanted on playground upgrades

THE City of Greater Geelong is calling on the local community to provide feedback on several playgrounds in the region slated for upgrade.

The city manages and maintains more than 380 playgrounds across the municipality which are assessed on an annual basis as part of a monitored renewal schedule.

This schedule, outlined in the Geelong Play Strategy, aims to provide well-located, well-designed, fun and accessible play spaces for the region’s families.

Upgrades have been proposed for eight playgrounds:

• Detroit Reserve, Corio, which includes the relocation of the playground
• Talona Reserve, Corio
• Janet Reserve, Newcomb
• Lancaster Reserve, Newcomb
• Sundial Reserve, Clifton Springs
• Empress Reserve, Ocean Grove, which involves the addition of a swing only
• Waurn Ponds Tennis Reserve, Waurn Ponds, and
• Ceres Recreation Reserve, Ceres.

These upgrades will see the installation of new and additional play equipment, ensuring there is somewhere to run, swing, slide and climb at each of the nominated play spaces.

Seating will also be installed at each location and trees will be planted to provide shade.

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said the aim of the community consultation was to build awareness of the city’s playground renewal program and gain insights from the community about their preferences.

“The city’s play spaces are valued and popular destinations for families to visit and enjoy.

“The Have Your Say feedback is important in helping the city to create play spaces that reflect the best interests of the community, particularly our youngest residents.”

Cr Elise Wilkinson, deputy chair of the council’s active spaces portfolio, said the city was committed to ensuring the region’s playgrounds meet community expectations.

“We understand the importance of providing play spaces that are easily accessible to residents, and include equipment that is both entertaining and testing, while maintaining high and safe Australian standards.”

The installation of the new playgrounds is expected to take place in the second quarter of this year and community consultation on the renewal program will remain open until 5pm on March 27.

To complete the online survey, head to yoursay.geelongaustralia.com.au/2024LPR

For hard copies of the survey, email the city’s community and recreation team via [email protected] or phone 5272 5272.