Share thoughts on playground plan

COMMUNITY feedback is being sought regarding a draft plan for the development of a playspace at Garden Gully Reserve in Ironbark, adjacent to the Bendigo Regional Hockey Complex.

The planned works include a new public toilet, a shelter and BBQ, shade trees, seating, irrigated lawn areas, planted garden beds, paths, concrete play tunnels, an all-abilities carousel and a big swing unit.

A play tower is also included, as well as bike hoops and a drinking fountain.

City of Greater Bendigo arks and open space manager Chris Mitchell said the City updated the existing masterplan in 2024, which was initially developed in 2004 to incorporate new public toilets, construction of the playspace and the provision of improved paths and linkages to the nearby Ironbark Gully Trail.

“The new playspace and public toilets are both key projects of the updated masterplan and will be constructed in a safer and more accessible location west of the existing hockey ground,” Mr Mitchell said.

“When the masterplan was updated, the community were informed that there would be a separate community engagement process for the design of the playspace.

“The City now wants to know what the community likes about the draft design, what they don’t like and what colours they would like to see in the new space.”

The existing neighbourhood level playground will remain in operation until construction is completed in 2027.

Residents can provide their feedback about the draft plan by visiting the City’s Let’s Talk Community Engagement website by Friday 16 May.