Nine Knox playgrounds getting a makeover

AN $800,000 revamp of nine tired Knox playgrounds will see new features added including sandpits and rock circles.

The playground in Tabilk Reserve, Wantirna, is one playground getting a makeover. Picture: Steve Tanner

AN $800,000 revamp of nine tired Knox playgrounds will see new features added including sandpits and rock circles.

And the council is leaving the final say on some of the extras up to a popular vote.

Nine of the council’s 286 playgrounds will be given a redesign by mid-next year as part of its yearly upgrades program.

The latest playgrounds chosen for a redesign are:

• Agora Reserve, Ferntree Gully
• Ainsdale Reserve, Wantirna
• Army Reserve, Boronia
• Peregrine Reserve, Rowville
• Phillipdale Reserve, Ferntree Gully
• Segarta Reserve, Rowville
• Tabilk Reserve, Wantirna
• Templeton Reserve, Wantirna
• Westburn Reserve, Scoresby

All nine will be kitted out with new equipment, including sand play areas, log seating, mud rocks and timber tables, as well as the traditional slides and swings.

Some of the playgrounds will be laid with softfall rubber surfaces.

The final designs can be voted on via the council’s website, including whether to have a chain bridge or monkey bars at Army Reserve, and a basket swing or double swing at Peregrine Reserve.

Knox Mayor Darren Pearce said the council assessed all playgrounds each year and decided where to allocate money to update and replace equipment.

Cr Pearce said maintaining the playgrounds was one way of encouraging people to spend more time outdoors.

“(It’s) beneficial for all members of the community as it helps us to connect with nature and allows us to learn, explore and imagine,” he said.

Feedback on the playgrounds closes Friday, October 27.