SARA GILLIGAN
A WILLASTON playspace opened to public use last week, with environmental sustainability at the heart of its design and almost $200,000 construction.
The Elliot Goodger Memorial Park Nature Playspace project was completed at Gawler River Road, Willaston, last Monday and features a basket swing, cubby, rope climbing net, tunnel, timber stepping, balancing logs, accessible slide and more.
Gawler Mayor Karen Redman said the playspace is nestled within a native landscape that complements existing trees and includes a picnic shelter and table.
“I’m so happy to see this nature playspace delivered in our town,” she said.
“Council is committed to improving our public spaces and the integration of this playspace, with the recently opened BMX Pump Track is testament to this.
“I’d like to thank the State Government for once again placing faith in the Town of Gawler to deliver such a project. We have certainly done that with this wonderful space.”
The project was delivered with the assistance of the State Government’s Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure through its Open Space Grant Program, with council as funding partners.
The total cost for community consultation, design, administration and construction over the 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 financial years is approximately $177,000, with council receiving $77,290 in grant funding.
“The location and final playground design were informed by extensive engagement undertaken with the broader community of Willaston and the Elliot Goodger sporting precinct users late last year,” Ms Redman said.
“The playground provides nature-based and structured play, as well as improved amenity and recreational benefits for the whole community.”