Matt Hewson
Sections of Geelong West’s Sparrow Park will close for up to two months while it undergoes upgrade works.
The well-attended play space will have its playground and maze closed in early February next year, with the current playground equipment to be replaced with new equipment and seats and trees installed.
With those areas off-limits for up to eight weeks, the rest of the reserve will still be available for use by the public.
Council began community consultation over the play space’s renewal in March this year, which includes the playground, mini skate park and maze area.
The park’s basketball and netball facilities, barbecue and picnic areas, public toilets and large lawn area were outside the scope of the renewal.
The value the community put on Sparrow Park was evident in the feedback, with the City receiving 623 community submissions during the engagement period.
The main themes in the responses were respondents’ love of the maze, the need for additional swings and the desire for timber products and unique design elements.
Brownbill Ward councillor Peter Murrihy thanked the community in anticipation of its patience through the process, saying he was looking forward to seeing the playground renewal delivered.
“We understand the importance of providing play spaces that are easily accessible to residents, and include equipment that is both entertaining and testing, while maintaining high and safe Australian standards,” Cr Murrihy said.
“While the closure of the playground and maze will be inconvenient in the short term, the result of the renewal process will be well worth the wait.
“It’s important to note that much of Sparrow Park remains available as the playground is renewed.”
