New playspace up and running

The Central Coast’s new district-level playspace at Picnic Point, The Entrance, is already proving popular with locals and visitors.

While it was officially opened on April 15, the playspace was ready for the community on Friday, April 11 – ensuring it was open for the first weekend of the school holidays.

The new play area features swing sets, slides, a multi-level climbing structure, an obstacle course, a flying fox, a junior climbing unit, shade and is fully fenced.

It also incorporates the existing rope climbing unit.

The new playspace was funded by the NSW Government’s Local Small Commitments Allocation Program ($190,000) in association with Central Coast Council ($196,000).

Central Coast Mayor Lawrie McKinna said the design of the playspace project reflected a community driven and inclusive approach.

“Last year, we conducted extensive community engagement to gather feedback on what residents wanted to see in playspaces,” he said.

“This feedback, along with guidance from our endorsed Playspace Strategy and Disability Inclusion Action Plan, directly shaped the equipment selection and overall design, ensuring the Picnic Point playspace is inclusive and meets the needs of local families.

“We’re proud to be delivering these community assets, shaped by input from the very people who will use them.”

Member for the Entrance David Mehan said the community made it very clear they wanted the playground upgraded and he was pleased their views were reflected in the Council design.

The Picnic Point playspace also features the inclusion of a public art piece which is in remembrance of the late Leigh Black, funded through community fundraising led by her family, including her husband Jeff, and close friends.

Jeff Black said it was fantastic to see the community, the NSW Government and Central Coast Council come together to make this possible.

“A big thank you to all involved and to all who donated, with a special mention to Vanessa Kooger for her fundraising efforts,” he said.

“Please come and see the wonderful public art piece and take a moment in this great location, to reflect on just how precious life is and to simply appreciate the joy children experience when playing ooudoors.”

For more information search ‘playspace renewals 2024-25’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au