The revitalisation of Newcastle’s iconic harbourside precinct is swinging into action, with council now seeking contractors to deliver the city’s largest playground.
A centrepiece of the Harbour Foreshore Masterplan, the outdoor play area features an inclusive regional playspace and waterplay area at the western end.
It’s also expected to pay tribute to Newcastle’s Aboriginal heritage as well as its industrial and maritime links.
It will comprise junior and toddler zones, water and nature-based play sections, quiet spaces, connected via accessible paths, seating, shade, gardens and lawns.
Bespoke playground equipment is likely to add to its unique and unquestionably local character, including a central whale-themed swing area that takes inspiration from a traditional Awabakal story, and an elevated play structure symbolising the city’s strong industrial ties.
Extensive tree planting and landscaping will be carried out throughout the precinct as part of the broader masterplan to significantly increase shade canopy and create greener public spaces.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said City of Newcastle (CN) was committed to providing enhanced recreational opportunities for the community.
“We know how much people value open spaces and the opportunity to spend more time outdoors and engage in an active and healthy lifestyle,” she explained.
“This is why we continue to invest in and deliver a range of local, district and regional level playgrounds to ensure everyone has the chance to access quality facilities now and into the future.”
The Expressions of Interest process, which closes 20 August, will enable council to shortlist suitably qualified contractors to proceed to the tendering phase for the design and construction of the new playground and waterplay area.
Work is also underway to start on an accessible amenities building and kiosk that will serve playground users and the broader park.
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said the staged works were key elements of the larger Harbour Foreshore Masterplan, which will help realise the full potential of the city’s premier park and events space.
“Our blueprint will deliver enhanced connectivity between the city and the harbour’s edge around Foreshore Park and along the Joy Cummings Promenade, creating a drawcard destination for locals and visitors alike from across the region to enjoy,” he added.
“The playspace project is a fantastic example of collaboration between City of Newcastle, our community and Touched by Olivia, a charity dedicated to the delivery of inclusive playspaces across Australia.
“It will transform the Harbour Foreshore into a more inviting recreational space that is inclusive and accessible for all members of the community.
“The flagship playground project will create a fun, inclusive and intergenerational experience designed to convey distinct Newcastle stories under the banners of trade, exchange, history, culture and environment.”
For more news stories:
- ‘Game-Changer’ health ideas share in $1.485m windfall
- Morisset, Glendale venues latest council beneficiaries
- Eagleton Quarry approval ‘rocks’ local residents
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
