Residents push for playtime safety and upgrades at neighbourhood playgrounds

In a submission tabled at the November Upper Lachlan Shire Council meeting, residents from Collector, Binda, Taralga, Dalton, Gunning and Bigga requested the council supported several projects, including requests for permission and development application waivers

Projects include an outdoor dining area at Bigga; an outdoor gym and shade sails at Binda, and; installation of shade sails and lighting at playgrounds and outdoor gyms at Collector, Crookwell, Dalton, Gunning, Taralga and Tuena.

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Residents at Dalton said lighting at Oolong Park would improve the park safety, and act as a deterrent for potential vandalism of the outdoor gym equipment.

More people are using the park since its improvements, including the refurbishment of the tennis court, a bubbler, an outdoor gym, and new equipment, the New Dalton District and Community Association's submission read.

"Solar lighting would improve safety for both local users and campers at the park. The toilet amenities and barbecue facilities, at the park, have no lighting."

Kathy Robertson, from the Binda Progress Association, said, residents would support the installation of shade sails at the playground, and locals wanted the current equipment updated.

"And more swings, kids love swings," she said.

Community groups also identified four parks that were closed earlier this year in Taralga, Gunning, Dalton and Laggan following a safety inspection of the equipment.

Members of the Laggan Progress Association said the equipment which did not pass inspection was more than likely close to half a century old.

A spokesperson for the group said, they would like the equipment upgraded, and a fence around the perimeter would make the park safer for children.

The council maintains 22 parks across the Upper Lachlan Shire.

The Upper Lachlan Shire Council were approached for comment. More to come.

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