Council is seeking more input from the local community on the future of play in our city.
We are currently revisiting our playground strategy and exploring other active recreation spaces such as skate facilities, outdoor fitness equipment, and basketball half courts.
Kingston Mayor Hadi Saab said that earlier this year over 2,300 people from all ages, backgrounds and abilities told us all about how, what, where, when, and why our community plays.
“The response to our initial consultation was amazingly encouraging and informative and has shaped the development of our draft Play Your Way strategy. Cr Saab said.
The guiding principles of the strategy are:
- Equity: Ensure equal access to playgrounds for every community member, especially our youngest ones.
- Diversity: Offer varied, fun, and stimulating play spaces throughout Kingston.
- Quality: Deliver play spaces that truly serve their purpose.
- Quantity: Aim for a Kingston where playgrounds are within everyone’s easy reach, mirroring our city’s population spread.
- Safety: Implement cost-effective maintenance to ensure long-lasting and safe playgrounds.
- Connection: Create opportunities for young people, their families, and friends to enjoy the outdoors together while connecting with and learning about nature.
- Sustainability: Prioritise sustainable designs and materials in play spaces.
Mayor Saab said we are very proud with where we have landed, but we are checking back in with the community to make sure we have got it right.
“These assets are so important to the physical and mental wellbeing of our residents, importantly providing free destinations for people to be active and connect socially and contributing significantly to our neighbourhood character and the overall liveability of our city,” Cr Saab said.
“We manage 116 public playgrounds, plus all our active recreation spaces, and while that is a lot, we need to make sure they are designed and located in areas that meet the needs of our community, are welcoming and inclusive for everyone to enjoy, and offer a range of different ways to play.
“Help us shape a network of fun, inspiring spaces that encourage everyone in Kingston to play their way, connect and learn.”
People of all ages and abilities are encouraged to have their say. Head to yourkingstonyoursay.com.au/play-your-way-strategy before 16 November 2023 to provide your feedback.
