Children will soon be able to enjoy a new and improved playground at Towradgi Park, following a decision by Wollongong City Council Administrators tonight to accept a tender for its construction.

Construction of the $232,933 playground will begin in February 2011, and will be complete with a range of innovative European play features including spinning elements, rope shipwreck structure, swings, slide and tower, shade and landscaping.

Administrator Dr Col Gellatly AO said this major project will transform the ageing play space into a new regional playground.

“Council recently carried out a safety audit of the existing playground at Towradgi Park, and found it was at the end of its lifespan. We’re confident our decision to replace the playground with a modern design will be welcome by local families,” Dr Gellatly said.

“As part of our focus on maintaining and repairing the city’s ageing infrastructure, Council is putting a priority on creating high standard regional play spaces the whole community can access, rather than smaller low quality neighbourhood parks.”

“Towradgi Park is a popular foreshore recreation area, complete with picnic shelters, barbeques and sporting facilities. By revamping this playground, we hope to attract children and families from across the city,” Administrator Gellatly said.

Landform Gardens has been awarded the tender to construct the new Towradgi Park playground. The playground is being designed by the same person who oversaw the popular play space at the Wollongong Botanic Garden.