Gosford: $10m redevelopment plans for Leagues Club Field revealed
Children’s water play areas will sit within a natural bushland setting under $10 million plans to revitalise the Leagues Club Field. See the incredible video.
LEAGUES Club Field will be transformed into a natural bushland setting with water passages and play areas, along with a smaller sports field.
The $10 million transformation of the 2.4ha of waterfront land in Gosford was unveiled this morning by Minister for Planning and Housing Anthony Roberts, with designs to be released for public comment.
The plan, which is part of the revitalisation of Gosford, is to transform the land into a “nature-inspired space with water play and sensory experiences for all ages”.
Construction of the park is expected to start late this year.
“This is going to be the best play space in NSW if not the Commonwealth,” Mr Roberts said.
“Today’s announcement further demonstrates this Government’s long-term commitment to Gosford, and our desire to keep the community engaged as part of delivering high quality outcomes that will help make this city a great destination for years to come.
“A regional play space has the potential to attract both locals and tourists, and to capitalise on the strong employment and residential growth in the area.”
He said the plans are for a “living, breathing bushland ecosystem that complements the park’s proximity to the waterfront”.
“There’s a strong focus on ‘wild play’ areas, where kids can splash around, get their hands dirty and explore a natural bushland setting,” he said.
“The centrepiece of the park will be a community hub, modelled on a Bungul (dancing) ground, designed in close collaboration with the Darkinjung Local Aboriginal Land Council.”
Waterways to work with tides
Senior landscape architect for Turf Design Studio Scott Jackson said the concept designs were a collaboration with Turf Design Studio and Environmental Partnership.
He said the waterways will work in with the tide from Brisbane Water, and have a maximum depth of 280mls.
“The water will come under the road, fill up with the tide and release with the tide,” Mr Jackson said.
“There will be a shut off system to stop water coming in, so we can work in with child safety guidelines.”
The State Government is consulting with Central Coast Council and various stakeholders on the designs, following a community survey earlier this year.
“The detailed design will include things that the community told us they wanted to see, including dozens of new trees, open green space for people to continue to play footy or other casual sports, walkways, picnic areas, toilet amenities and lighting,” Mr Roberts said.
“By releasing designs to the community today, we are inviting further feedback to help us deliver something truly special. We’re also continuing to work with the Darkinjung to ensure that the space is embedded with indigenous culture, sharing their stories and connection with the region.”
Have your say on the Leagues Club Field designs by visiting the HCCDC website or the Central Coast Regional Plan Info Centre on the corner of Mann and Donnison streets, Gosford, until March 15 2019.
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