Hills Shire commits to providing more accessible playspaces

March 18, 2021

Having received a $276,631 grant under the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE)’s ‘Everyone Can Play’ program, The Hills Shire Council is planning to transform a vacant site, known as Equinox Drive Reserve, into a more accessible playground for children with a range of abilities.

The funding will also provide for a 2.5metre wide shared pathway through the park with regional connections, concrete pathways, accessible park furniture and landscaping. A basketball shooting circle has also been included to cater for older children and youth.

Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne said this will help ensure everyone living within the local parks’ catchment area will have the opportunity to utilise the equipment.

Mayor Byrne notes "It is my hope that Equinox Drive Reserve will become a favourite destination for our littlest residents and the general community, and that it also becomes a special space where children and young people feel comfortable to just be themselves, let their imaginations run wild and enjoy the equipment, regardless of their abilities.

“I want to thank the DPIE for their contribution towards this project and I look forward to seeing work get underway on this wonderful new facility very soon.”

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said councils across NSW were sharing in the $7 million pool of funding to construct and upgrade playspaces that ensured inclusivity and added “great public spaces are essential infrastructure for any city or town. These inclusive play spaces will be focal points for communities, where people of all ages and ability can come and play.”

Construction is set to commence on the park and associated playspace later this year.

Image: Hills Shire Mayor Byrne pictured at the future Equinox Drive Reserve park and playspace

16th March 2021 - Work commences on new Kellyville sporting complex

16th March 2021 - NSW Government announces funding for parks and play

12th February 2021 - Hills Shire expands its rugby league facilities

17th December 2020 - Hills Shire Council to enter into licence agreement with Parramatta Eels for redevelopment of Kellyville Park

10th July 2020 - The Hills Shire completes upgrade of Connie Lowe Reserve in time for school holidays

12th May 2020 - Hills Shire Council commits to rebuild of Waves Aquatic Centre

1st March 2021 - Wollongong plans for its first inclusive playspace

2nd December 2020 - Penrith Council upgrades Ironbark Reserve Playspace 

29th November 2020 - Penrith Council delivers more contemporary and inclusive playspace at The Carriageway

15th August 2020 - Construction starts on new playspaces in Campbelltown

25th June 2020 - Everyone Can Play Grant helps fund Penrith’s playspace upgrades

18th February 2020 - Baulkham Hills’ Waves Aquatic Centre to close at end of March for $48 million redevelopment

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