City of Newcastle’s (CN) investment in recreational spaces is gathering momentum, following the official opening of Beresfield’s Vera Wilson Park this week.
It’s the first of five new playgrounds being upgraded across the city this year.
Fletcher’s Loch Ness Drive Park, Harold Myers Park in Birmingham Gardens, Avon Street Reserve (Mayfield) and Waratah Park are all set to be completed within coming months.
Modernised equipment at Vera Wilson Park caters for a range of ages, with swings, challenging climbing components, slides and multi-play units.
Other features at the upcoming play areas include a new stairway at Fletcher and a mini-trampoline at Waratah.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said up to five of Newcastle’s 134 local playgrounds were replaced annually.
“We have a commitment to deliver improved recreational opportunities for families across the local government area,” she explained.
“Vera Wilson Park was originally named in 1969 after Beresfield Progress Association life member and British Empire Medal recipient Vera Wilson, for her dedication to improving the Beresfield area including this playground on Beresford Avenue.
“As a member of the Beresfield Progress Association, she was a trailblazer and frequently advocated for improvements to the park.
“So, it is wonderful to unveil the newly-upgraded park in honour of her legacy for future generations and the Beresfield community to enjoy.
“A community event will take place at Vera Wilson Park on Tuesday 18 April from noon, showcasing how our local parks and playgrounds are places where our community can come together to relax and interact.
“The turnout at previous local playground community opening functions reinforces the important role these public spaces play within local neighbourhoods, which is why we continue to invest in these projects.”
City of Newcastle has invested more than $9.5 million in playgrounds during the past five years, including the recently-opened $2 million Wallsend Active Hub.
Detailed design work is also continuing for the play space at Gregson Park and on the fully-fenced accessible play space and waterpark in Foreshore Park as part of the implementation of CN’s adopted Newcastle Harbour Foreshore Masterplan.
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