June 2017 update

In February and March 2017, Council carried out community consultation with locals to find out what features they think Thornlands Community Park should include.

Highlights

• An Open Day was held where the park will be, with over 100 community members taking part in conversations with the local Councillor and Council Officers about the proposed layout and their vision for the space.
• More than 40 people participated on the online brainstormer activity by adding their ideas for the space or voting on proposed ideas.
• More than 70 people engaged with Council on social media to share their ideas and vision for the park.

Top activities voted for by the community

1. Water play

2. Large scale exciting and all-abilities playground

3. Coffee kiosk area and park activities

4. Green time not screen time (no wi-fi in the park)

5. Shade

6. Paths and tracks

Key Messages

Water Play

There was a strong message from the community requesting a water park in South East Thornlands Park. There are a number of things Council must consider before installing a water park in the Redlands. This includes a compatible location and the ongoing costs of maintaining and operating a water park. While there is no scope in this project to install a Water Splash Park, a small natural play water element is planned with water pumps and creek/water channels.

Playground

Council recognises that there is a strong message from the community for interesting and exciting playgrounds. The proposed design will aim to provide a new and exciting playground at a scale not previously seen in the Redlands. The playground will be fully fenced and will cater to all abilities and ages. Picnic facilities and public amenities access will be included within the fenced area of the playground and circuit track for young children. Further targeted consultation will be conducted to develop the design of this space.

Shade and Seating

The community expressed the importance of providing plenty of shade, seating and picnic facilities within the park. We recognise the importance of sun safety and the proposed design will aim to maximise shade through tree plantings, picnic shelters and shade structures over the playground. Picnic facilities will be provided throughout the park – including, BBQ’s, drinking fountains, shelters and platform seats to facilitate picnics within the park.

Dog Off Leash Area

Council have heard the Community’s concerns surrounding the Dog off Leash area and the potential conflicts between children, wildlife in the adjoining reserve and families using the park. We have proposed a new dog off leash area down the road at Freshwater Park which provides this function to the local community.

Youth Zone now Active Lifestyle

We received a message from the community that they would like to see a more integrated and multi use space in the Youth Zone – rather than a dedicated skate or BMX park. The proposed design for this area will incorporate a full size multi purpose court, parkour items, plaza space with seating and small wheeled features creating a dynamic space that caters to a wider range of youth users. Further targeted consultation will be conducted to develop the design of this space.