Work is under way on the next stage of the Belvoir Park Playground with new additions chosen by children and their families.
More than 250 local children, parents and carers had their say on what the new playground for six to 14-year-olds should include and work started on February 6 to turn the ideas into reality.
The work was delayed by heavy rain and flooding in winter and spring last year but now that the site has dried out, the redevelopment is expected to be completed by the end of June, 2023.
Wodonga Council’s Manager Sport and Recreation, Liona Edwards, said it was exciting to be delivering a project that was largely designed by the people who will use it most.
“We had an amazing response from children when we asked them to have a say on what should be included and with several favourites on the list, it became clear just what the kids of Wodonga want to see in their playground,” she said.
“As a result, we’re building an even more advanced playspace in a Regional Park, creating a drawcard for families that we know children will love – because they told us what to include.”
Among the additions are two flying foxes for old-fashioned fun and a ninja warrior obstacle course with a modern twist – a smartphone app so that people can time themselves and try to make it to a top 20 leader board.
Other equipment items will include:
- An all-abilities carousel that can fit two wheelchairs;
- A rope “snake swing” that up to six children can ride at once;
- A 7.3-metre climbing tower with platforms and peep holes;
- A four-metre high twisted slide and a second, smaller slide for young children;
- A three-metre climbing boulder; and,
- A basket swing
The works will also deliver a covered, wheelchair accessible shelter with picnic tables and a barbecue, a drinking fountain and a low, see-through fence between the new playground and the lake to help keep young children safe.
Access to the existing playground will remain open doing the construction but there will be reduced car parking in Bank Street, with heavy vehicle movement in and around the new section.
Visitors to Belvoir Park and the playgrounds are asked to follow safety signage.