Parkes Shire is finally set to open a free water play space at Kelly Reserve in Parkes following the awarding of $500,000 in funding from the NSW Government.
Community consultation has identified Kelly Reserve as the most suitable location for a water play space. The new play space will enhance the Kelly Reserve precinct as a social hub and gathering space, providing an entertaining and engaging space for the community and visitors to Parkes.
The play space will be designed using the topography of the Lachlan catchment and the rivers, lakes, dams, weirs, and bores as inspiration. Interpretive signage will tell the story of water and explain the physics and engineering that surround natural and engineered water flow.
Council's Mayor, Ken Keith OAM said the project would expand on the already popular facilities at Kelly Reserve.
"The establishment of a free water play space has been a long-held desire of many in our community, and we're very pleased to be bringing this vision to life through the funding we've received from the NSW Government," added Cr Keith.
Innovation, inclusivity, and accessibility is at the forefront of this project ensuring that people of all ages and abilities can engage in play, with inclusions such as a splash pad, water fountains, wide bridges and trickling streams included.
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Paul Scully said the new water play space will be a great addition to Kelly Reserve in Parkes.
"Once completed this place will make a splash in the Parkes community and bring residents of all ages and abilities together to cool off in summer months as well as learning about water," Mr Scully said.
"I can't wait to see how the design will draw on the unique water story of the Lachlan Valley and am really excited to see the project get underway."
Works on this project are expected to be completed mid-2024.
