Playgrounds upgraded, as 'playspace' strategy drafted

Central Coast Council has announced the completion of upgrades to playgrounds at Brisbane Ave and Lentara Reserve, and at the Peninsula Recreation Precinct, Umina.

It has also announced that its draft Playspace Strategy is on exhibition with public comments being accepted until August 14.

The draft strategy appears to signal Council's adoption of the term "playspaces" to refer to playgrounds.

A council media release used the term "playspace" 57 times and the word "playground" only twice.

Council director Mr Scott Cox said: "The strategy was developed to set consistent guidelines and goals for the development and sustainable management of playspaces across the whole Central Coast region.

"The Playspace Strategy also ensures future playspaces are appropriately located with equal distribution across the region, and are well designed, inclusive and will further develop our network of quality playspaces to provide a range of play experiences catering to the varied needs of our community.

"Our 20-year management program provides a long-term strategy for regular inspection, repair, replacement and upgrades to ensure the safety and maintenance of these valued playspaces."

Mayor Cr Lisa Matthews commented on the social, economic and health benefits these new playspaces offer to bring.

"Playgrounds are important spaces, through which the community builds social networks and keeps active.

"Playspaces can also increase tourism and economic activity in the surrounding areas.

"Council will continue to invest in playspaces and seek and secure grant funding from all levels of Government."

SOURCE:

Media Release, 15 Jul 2020

Scott Cox, Central Coast Council