New play area to have ‘wow’ factor

The South West’s latest nature-play area should be ready for kids to explore by Australia Day, following the selection of the successful tender for the project.

Harvey Shire Council selected the winning bid from eight applicants to build the play zone at the Ridley Place Foreshore as part of Stages 3 and 4 of the Ridley Place Foreshore Master Plan.

The council endorsed the stages in June, paving the way for the tender process to begin.

The new playground will combine nature-based play elements with the latest conventional play equipment.

Harvey shire executive manager of technical services Rick Lotznicker said staff had undertaken a comprehensive assessment of the applications.

The timeline of the construction and the creation of an innovative play feature were two major factors in the assessment process.

“The successful tender provided a point of difference and a real ‘wow’ factor,” Mr Lotznicker said.

“We think kids would really love to play in there.”

The name of the tender will be released once the company has been notified.

The playground is set to include a flying fox and accessible play components to allow play opportunities for children with disabilities.

The design will take advantage of the natural sloping landscape and trees at the foreshore and incorporate elements from local Aboriginal heritage.

Cr Wendy Dickinson asked if the playground would be complete before Australind’s Australia Day ceremonies at the foreshore.

“We will do our best,” Mr Lotznicker said.

Future development at the foreshore will include a cafe or restaurant, as well as upgrades to the ageing toilet facilities.