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The City of Newcastle has advised that construction will begin this year on its first purpose-built inclusive playspace and waterplay area should councillors award a tender for the Foreshore Park project on Tuesday evening.

The regional-level playground has been developed following more than five years of input from the community and the 'Touched by Olivia Foundation', a charity dedicated to the creation of inclusive playspaces across Australia.

The playspace is the centrepiece of the Harbour Foreshore Masterplan and will be located at the western end of Foreshore Park.

It will have four separate zones including junior and toddler areas, water and nature-based play areas and quiet spaces, connected via accessible paths, seating, shade, gardens and lawns.

Bespoke playground equipment will add to its distinctly Newcastle character, including a central whale-themed swing and picnic area paying tribute to the city's Worimi and Awabakal heritage.

The waterplay area will be linked to Newcastle's maritime history and coastal ecologies, while an elevated ‘nuts and bolts’ play structure will symbolise Newcastle's strong industrial ties and include an accessible ramp to the first level of the tower.

An accessible slide, sandpit, carousel and sensory pathway are among the other key features of the inclusive design. Navigation through the space will be made easier with a logical and accessible path of travel, while charging points for wheelchairs and mobility devices are also included.

Final detailed designs will be completed by the successful tenderer before construction kicks off later in the year.

The playspace at Foreshore Park was designed in accordance with the NSW Government's Everyone Can Play guidelines and aims to promote intergenerational, inclusive play, with opportunities for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Newcastle Deputy Lord Mayor, Callum Pull noted "Quality community spaces play a significant role in enhancing the lives of people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities.

"When completed, this will be by far one of the best facilities in our city, and I am very proud that our city is in a position to deliver such a fantastic project.

"This will create a flagship inclusive playspace that will become a thriving hub for intergenerational community building, positively supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of residents and visitors."

Councillor Declan Clausen, who has submitted two notices of motion to Council this term supporting the delivery of the Foreshore Park playspace, said it would be a valued community facility adding "City of Newcastle has been engaging with the community since 2020 to create a shared vision for the Foreshore Park precinct, to ensure it meets the needs and expectations as our premier regional park, for all Newcastle residents, workers and visitors to enjoy.

"We are committed to creating accessible and inclusive public spaces, ensuring high-quality playgrounds and park facilities are available to all Novocastrians."

Justine Perkins, Founder of Touched by Olivia, and Livvi's Mum, said play is important and beneficial for everyone adding "Creating (play)spaces that are fun, safe, welcoming and enjoyable by children, youth and adults alike, is what we are about.

"This Livvi's Place design is truly inclusive and intergenerational and has a wonderful connection to place.

"The nuts and bolts play tower features ramps and graduated stairs so all children and adults can join in the fun on the upper play decks, the incredible pathways and accessible routes for fun and adventure throughout, and the multitude of challenge and choice, will ensure there are many, many play hours for us all at Foreshore Park.

"The design is subtle and seamless and shows how creative inclusive design can be.

"City of Newcastle has been a fantastic partner. They have been committed to really listening to the children, youth and community and ensuring co-creation from the start.

"This playspace is a testament to their understanding that we all want to and need to be able to get outdoors and play together, with others, in our community to ensure we live happier, healthier lives."

Access Inclusion Advisory Committee Co-Chair Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk shared "Accessibility considerations have been incorporated into all aspects of the design, from the way users navigate through and interact with the space, to the choice and layout of the equipment and the inclusion of quiet areas to cater for everyone.

"The playspace and water play area will transform the Harbour Foreshore into an even more inviting recreational space that is inclusive and accessible for all members of the community, enabling children and youth of all abilities and ages to play side by side."

The playspace will be complemented by a fully accessible amenities building and kiosk, which is currently under construction in Foreshore Park. It includes unisex ambulant toilets, a parent's change room, and a Changing Places facility.

The Foreshore Park projects are supported by the NSW Government, Variety the Children's Charity, the Touched by Olivia Foundation and the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund.

Image. An artist's impression of the waterplay area, which is part of the inclusive Foreshore Park playground project. Credit:City of Newcastle.

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