Published on Thursday, 11 June 2020 at 2:07:41 PM
A nature play area that blends into the landscape and encourages creative play is taking shape on the banks of the Swan River.
Trips to the playground are back on the agenda and next month Vincent youth will have a brand new area to explore at Banks Reserve in Mount Lawley.
The Banks Reserve Active Zone will feature an updated playground enclosed by rammed earth seating walls and bespoke fencing, a picnic area, skate bike racks and a basketball and netball court.
Sheltered by existing mature trees, the nature play area will provide kids of all ages with a place to explore and learn.
The play area will include embankment slides, a spiral slide, a climbing net, an elevated timber play structure, a basket swing, tepees, balancing beams and stepping logs.
Barbeques, power outlets and water fountains will be installed in the Active Zone and there will be a variety of seats for parents who want to relax while their kids roam around.
The multi-court will feature Aboriginal artwork in recognition of the cultural significance of the reserve.
“After the past few months of playground closures, we are really celebrating and enjoying our playgrounds I don’t think we will ever take them for granted again,” said Mayor Emma Cole.
“The Banks Reserve Active Zone is a major project and one that I know our community members will absolutely love.
“It is a fun area that encourages creative play and exploration for kids of all ages.
“We have used timber, limestone, rammed earth and boulders throughout the playground and the neutral colour palette blends in beautifully with the natural landscape
“Banks Reserve is a place of natural beauty and Aboriginal cultural significance. I think the thoughtful design and natural palette is really respectful of Banks Reserves uniqueness.”
The Banks Reserve Master Plan, which provides a guide for the future development and management of the reserve, was endorsed by council in March last year.
One of the key outcomes of the master plan was to create a play space that made the most of the unique landscape and location.
Construction on the active zone started after an extensive design process done in collaboration with the community.
The project was funded as part of the 2019/20 budget and the tender was approved prior to COVID-19 impacts were felt. It will be full funded and completed as planned.
The City aimed to improve accessibility to the site, provide diverse play options, honour the history and cultural significance of the site and create a connection with the entire reserve.
The Banks Reserve Active Zone is expected to be completed by mid-July.
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