Published on Monday, 12 November 2018 at 12:38:44 PM

WELCOME PRECINCT/ALL AGES PLAYGROUND PROJECT

The Shire of Katanning is set to start work on the renovation and rejuvenation of its iconic All Ages Playground. The Shire will hold a community farewell event on Sunday 18 November between 11:00am – 2:00pm, to celebrate the current playground before it closes temporarily to undergo a major facelift.  

Community members who attend the event will be treated to free entertainment, including face painting, sausage sizzle and the miniature railway. Shire President Liz Guidera said “The Katanning All Ages Playground is an experience so many people associate with Katanning, whether a resident or visitor to the town. The playground is an important part of our town’s history, we acknowledge the fantastic initiative undertaken by the community in 1984, when work on the All Ages Playground began”.  

The initiative is part of the Katanning Heritage Centre Project funded by Royalties for Regions, Lotterywest and the Shire of Katanning.  Although the redevelopment is set to significantly change the landscape of the All Ages Playground into a premier Welcome Precinct at the town’s main entrance, many parts of the playground will still be instantly recognisable. “The Shire understands the importance of upholding the unique identity of the All Ages Playground and in recognition of this we have prioritised retaining, repurposing and renovating as much of the old equipment as possible” Ms Guidera said.

The detailed design of the Welcome Precinct, which will include the current Skate Park and Lion’s Park has been completed by Plan E Landscape Architects. “The construction tender is now out to market and is due to close on 14 November 2018. After the tender period has closed, it is anticipated that Council will consider and appoint a contractor to commence site works of the All Ages Playground/Welcome Precinct in December 2018” Shire CEO Julian Murphy explained.  

The development of the precinct will be undertaken in three parts. Work on part one, commencing upon engagement of the contractor will include the All Ages Playground and children’s playground. Part two works will include the enhancement of the Skate Park and Lion’s Park, marked to occur after Australia Day 2019. Part three works, predominantly carparking will immediately follow the completion of part two works. The All Ages Playground is expected to be completed by July 2019.

With the rise in popularity of destination playgrounds and so too the willingness of families to day-trip or spend the weekend, the Welcome Precinct Project will enhance Katanning’s visitor experience and support the town’s tourism sector as a key area for future economic development. The improvements the project will bring to local amenity and recreation facilities will contribute to the town’s ability to attract and retain residents.

For further information please contact Sue Eastcott on 9821 9999.

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