William Lawson Park’s new playground open in time for Daylight Savings

Published on 30 September 2020

Blacktown City’s young – and young in spirit – can now enjoy an upgraded playground at William Lawson Park in Prospect.

The $122,000 refurbishment was funded through Blacktown City Council’s Work Improvement Program for 2019/20.

Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland MP, also secured $20,000 funding towards a picnic shelter from the Australian Government’s Stronger Communities Programme.

Blacktown City Mayor, Tony Bleasdale OAM said, “With Daylight Savings for 2020 just around the corner, the opening of this new playground at William Lawson Park is a wonderful new area for families to take advantage of the warmer weather and longer daylight hours.”

“I know it has been hard for many of Blacktown City’s residents to stay fit and healthy during this difficult time, and for families with young children, it’s been even more of a challenge.

“I’d like to encourage locals and visitors to our great City alike to visit one of the nearly 800 parks and reserves across Blacktown City.

“This exciting, purpose-built playground at William Lawson Park is just one example of Council’s commitment to providing the best possible recreation facilities for our residents” Mayor Bleasdale said.

The new play space, located on Myrtle Street in Prospect, now features 2 multi-play units with a variety of climbing and sliding elements, a junior and senior swing, a multi-person rope swing, an inclusive double carousel spinner, and a rocker.

The new picnic shelter, situated next to the playground, provides shade and picnic facilities to those using the equipment as well as the many sporting clubs and teams that use William Lawson Park.

Michelle Rowland MP said: “The $20,000 in federal funding I secured for these upgrades will greatly improve the liveability of our local area”.

“Thank you to the many local families who brought the state of the former facilities to my attention. 

“Ensuring local children can have access to first-class, safe play equipment is key to encouraging healthy lifestyles.”

Council conducted community engagement in November 2019, including consultation with Prospect Little Athletics, Prospect United Netball Club, Prospect United Soccer Club, and William Lawson Park Committee.

Picture: Enjoying the new playground (left to right); Maddison Porter and Ava Wildsmith with (at rear) Councillor Susai Benjamin, Mayor Tony Bleasdale OAM, Councillor Kathie Collins OAM, and Michelle Rowland MP .