Byron Shire Council looks set to move ahead with a major rethink of its playground network, despite what it acknowledges is a ‘mixed’ response from the community – particularly around the proposed removal of some smaller local parks.
The Playspace Action Plan, recommended for adoption at Council’s 16 April meeting (today), will guide playground planning across the Shire for the next 15 years.
At its core is a major shift in approach: fewer small, local playgrounds and more larger ‘district’ and ‘neighbourhood’ spaces designed to cater to a wider range of ages and activities.
Council staff say the current network is ‘characterised by an oversupply of small, localised facilities’, many of which are ageing and no longer meet expectations for ‘modern, inclusive, shaded, and diverse play’.
Community consultation shows broad support for improving playgrounds – but less agreement on how to get there.
While 57 of 101 survey respondents supported the idea of larger play spaces replacing smaller ones in some locations, that number dropped to 43 when people were asked specifically about removing existing playgrounds.
Council’s report notes that residents want better facilities, ‘however this appears to be not at the expense of any removal of smaller facilities.’
The consultation revealed a clear divide. People living close to small parks were more likely to oppose their removal, while young people consulted through Bangalow Public School showed a preference for ‘one large play space rather than lots of small ones.’
Parents, grandparents and carers made up the vast majority of respondents, with priorities focused on play equipment, shade, safety and proximity to home. Despite the mixed feedback, some playgrounds remain earmarked for removal.
Pepperbush Court in Suffolk Park is still proposed to be removed once it reaches the end of its life, with Council noting its proximity to the larger Linda Vidler Park, which is planned for future upgrades.
Nearby Bunya Court is also identified for removal, although Council says there will be ‘further consultation with the community about future use’, including the possibility of a dog off-leash area.
Leopardwood Crescent in Bangalow, which attracted ‘several submissions and opposition’, will remain in place for now, with further consultation planned.
In Byron Bay, Gordon Street and Evans Street parks will also be retained, while Mackellar Court – described as having a ‘passionate community that cherishes the park’ – has been added to the upgrade program.
Under the proposed model, smaller local playgrounds located within 400 to 800 metres of larger facilities may be ‘scaled back… or removed once they reach the end of their life cycle’, with funding redirected into larger, more complex play spaces.
Council says this approach aligns with best practice and will deliver more diverse and inclusive play opportunities across the Shire.
But for some residents, the balance between improving facilities and retaining local access to play spaces is likely to remain an ongoing issue of contention.
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