Construction starts on City Deal park for Glenbrook

Construction is now underway for the new playground at Glenbrook District Park, following an important community consultation on determining the design. 

The new park for the Blue Mountains was funded through the Western Sydney City Deal Liveability Program, with just over $1 million contributed from the Federal Government, the NSW State Government and the Blue Mountains Council. 

Liberal Senator for Western Sydney, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, said the Western Sydney City Deal is delivering projects of all sizes across Western Sydney,transforming the region and leading to new job opportunities for residents.   “The all-abilities playground is an important and popular addition to Glenbrook and will mean more families can spend time in and around the village,” Senator Payne said.

“The new works at Glenbrook are just the beginning. There are many other projects in the pipeline under the Western Sydney City Deal that will shortly get underway, supporting local jobs.”   “Importantly, there are many other projects in the pipeline under the Western Sydney City Deal, such as the redevelopment of Springwood Library.”   NSW Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said involving the community in the decision making process for this playground has been essential in shaping an inclusive, fun and interactive play space that the community wants.

“The inclusive playground means more elements for kids and their families with additional needs, providing a truly welcoming space for all,” Mr Ayres said.  NSW Member of the Legislative Council Shayne Mallardsaid infrastructure programs of all scales will be how webuild back from bushfires and COVID-19.

“I am pleased to be here today to support growing local jobs and businesses which will benefit the whole district,” Mr Mallard said. 

All four district parks in the Blue Mountains at Glenbrook, Springwood, Wentworth Falls and Blackheath are receiving upgrades valued at more than $5.2 million, thanks to funding through the Western Sydney City Deal Liveability Program.

Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill said more than 600 people completed our online tool – the Funbobulator– to help guide the design of this playground. We heard the community asking for bigger, more daring equipment so we adjusted the plan to combine the climbing tower and slide.

“This project significantly broadens recreation options for the young people of the Blue Mountains, making Glenbrook Park a great family destination for all ages and abilities,” Cr Greenhill said.

All of the existing shelters are being revamped and reused in or around the playground. There will be extensive shade and new tree plantings, and a new entrance features recycled elements with the old transport theme. The playground will also be fenced.

The junior play space will remain open with temporary gates and two entry points, during the works.   The community can also still walk from the village centrethrough to the public toilets and Glenbrook Cinema and the public toilets remain available to use and the public parking is unaffected.    The major upgrade, in addition to the junior playground built in 2018, is an inclusive new play space for seven to 12 year olds. It includes:

5.4-metre climbing rope tower with tunnel slide20-metre double flying fox with two seats including one for smaller children or those needing support five additional swings including a multi-person nest swing for those who need back support two trampolines, one large enough for a wheelchair monkey bars timber balance trail, and  a range of sensory and imagination-stimulating components.

  Construction is expected to be finished by the end of January 2021. To follow the progress of the project or find out more go to: yoursay.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/glenbrook-playspace.

Photo: Blue Mountains Councillor Brendan Christie, Senator Marise Payne and Blue Mountains Mayor, Cr Mark Greenhill.