Providing open spaces that meet the needs and aspirations of the local community is a top priority for Council, said Mayor of The Hills Shire, Councillor Yvonne Keane.
Mayor Keane met with more than 50 Hills Shire residents during a community consultation session at the site of a future local playground on Oxlade Street Reserve on Friday 10 March.
Attendees, including children, were given the opportunity to talk about the type of play equipment they enjoyed. To stimulate discussion, examples of the wide range of items provided in local parks were on display, including an accessible basket swing, ‘challenge and explore’ items such as climbing ropes and the traditional favourites – slides and combined play units.
The most common suggestions were for play equipment items and a playground design that could be enjoyed by a range of ages.
Park goers were also asked about the name of the location. Responses ranged from the popular name of Oxlade Street Reserve or Tree Frog Reserve, with a few suggestions for Smalls Creek Reserve.
Mayor Keane said the playground community consultation session was one way Council and residents were working together to create amazing recreational facilities which could be used by all for years to come.
“Council is working hard to provide well-designed open spaces for the growing numbers of people living, studying and working in our area,” Mayor Keane said.
“The soon-to-be-built playground at Oxlade Street Reserve is just one way Council is ensuring residents and visitors have access to high quality facilities regardless of where they live or their ability.
“I want to thank everyone who came to our consultation session and told us what they would like to see in their play spaces. The feedback that we received was incredibly valuable and will be at the centre of our planning design consideration.
“I can’t wait to see this wonderful community facility come to fruition,” Mayor Keane added.
Council will now review and incorporate feedback into the tender specifications.
Mayor Keane said with increasing numbers of families moving into The Sydney Hills, Council was committed to continuing a range of consultation activities to ensure community needs and aspirations were articulated and considered as part of open space planning, design and delivery.
“People are very passionate about their parks. This is why I have decided to engage with the local community through park consultation sessions,” Mayor Keane said.
“Our first session at the proposed Oxlade Street Reserve was a success and Council will continue to engage with residents at future park sites.
“These sessions determine what’s important to residents and the best decisions are made in partnership with the people who will use these local facilities, in particular children.
“I am proud of Council’s commitment to upgrading facilities for our residents in The Hills community.”
