City of Newcastle swings into action with million-dollar investment into playgrounds

Families across the city will have more reasons to plan a trip to their local park thanks to City of Newcastle's million-dollar investment into upgraded playground equipment and new amenities.

Recreational areas such as Rawson Park at Stockton, Adamstown No.2 and Waratah's Coolamin Reserve will receive new equipment as part of City of Newcastle's annual improvement program, while Islington and Lambton Park playgrounds will be upgraded with new rubber softfall and equipment respectively.

Designs for the playgrounds are currently being finalised, with construction expected to start early in the new year.

City of Newcastle is also enhancing the experience of families visiting Newcastle's largest playground, with new amenities now open at the $2 million Wallsend Active Hub.

Wallsend Active Hub has become one of Newcastle's most popular playgrounds and multi-purpose recreation spaces since opening in November 2022, catering for community members of all ages with a bike pump track, climbing walls, multi-sport courts, rebound wall and fitness equipment. Future stage two works will include a barbecue area, shelter and seating.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes says City of Newcastle has invested more than $10 million into playground projects over the past five years as part of its commitment to delivering enhanced recreational opportunities for the community.

"We know how much our community values open spaces and their local playgrounds, which provide local children and families with the opportunity to spend more time outdoors and engage in an active and healthy lifestyle," Cr Nelmes said.

"Not only does City of Newcastle upgrade up to five playgrounds a year through its annual improvement program, we also invest additional funding into district level projects such as the new $3 million inclusive playspace at Hamilton's historic Gregson Park, which will begin construction early next year.

"I'm also glad to see the addition of the new toilet amenities at Wallsend Active Hub, which will enhance the comfort and experience of local residents and visitors from across the region who travel to enjoy its diverse offering of recreational opportunities."

Newcastle has more than 116 playgrounds across the Local Government Area and has an ongoing program of upgrading and renewing the facilities. Five playgrounds were upgraded under the program during the past 12 months including Beresfield’s Vera Wilson Park, Loch Ness Drive Park in Fletcher, Harold Myers Park in Birmingham Gardens, Avon Street Reserve in Mayfield, and Waratah Park.

Visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/works to stay up to date with progress on playgrounds and other projects in your area.