Floating playgrounds among ideas to activate Georges River

Floating playgrounds could potentially be explored to activate the Georges River, although water quality issues remain.

Example of a floating playground — Australia's first floating playground at Broadwater Parklands on the Gold Coast.

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Floating playgrounds could potentially be explored for the Georges River in a bid to activate the region’s connections to the waterway.

A number of initiatives have been undertaken or are being investigated to revitalise key sites along the Georges River corridor as part of Liverpool Council’s River Connections Program.

Most recently, Casula Parklands was revitalised with an adventure playground, outdoor ninja gym, off-leash dog parks and an amenities building installed for public use.

The council is considering a number of initiatives to better connect the city with the Georges River.

The council is turning its attention towards other key projects, including improvements at Lighthorse Park to make it safe, accessible and inviting for the community.

A new river crossing over Liverpool Weir is also on the cards, with construction to begin from 2020-21.

A City Infrastructure and Environment Report prepared by Liverpool Council staff highlights a number of recreational activities common in urban rivers that could be explored for the Georges River — including floating playgrounds.

A council report states there are “real opportunities” to introduce floating playgrounds.

“There are real opportunities to introduce floating playgrounds in the Chipping Norton

Lakes area as mini amusement parks,” the report stated.

“However, ongoing concerns regarding water quality have so far precluded such a proposal from being considered.”

Other activation ideas include improving swimmability along sections of the river, and boating and kayaking activities.

The report states further assessment should be undertaken to test the viability and priority of such strategies in light of water quality issues.