CHILDREN S PLAY ACTION PLAN

Transcription

1 ADELAIDE CITY COUNCIL CHILDREN S PLAY ACTION PLAN Glossary: 1. Kaurna Acknowledgement Page 2 2. Lord Mayor s Message Page 2 3. Introduction Page Guiding Principles Page Strategic Context & Guiding Principles Page Legislative Context and Australian Standards Page 5 4. Research and Trends Page 6 5. Action Plan Page Overview Page Conclusion Page 41 Page 1

2 1. Kaurna Acknowledgement We acknowledge the traditional country of the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains and pay respect to Elders past and present. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship with the land. We acknowledge that they are of continuing importance to the Kaurna people living today. 2. Lord Mayor s Message TBA 3. Introduction The Children s Play Action Plan sets out an overarching framework to steer the future enhancement and provision of dedicated playspaces, as well as the promotion and support of play opportunities within the City of Adelaide. The Action Plan will inform future priorities and actions to be implemented over the next 10 years ( ), with a provision for review in five years. The Children s Play Action Plan responds to Council s Active City Strategy; the recreation and sport blueprint for the City and also aligns with the Park Lands Management Strategy. This Action Plan sets the strategic framework for the provision of dedicated playspaces within activity hubs in the outer Park Lands, and local play provision within the City s residential Squares. The Action Plan sets out the steps for achieving the high level of play provision envisaged in the Strategy. Both the Active City Strategy and Children s Play Action Plan have been informed by literature reviews and research on best practice and key trends in relation to play provision in urban environments. This research has been collated and summarised in a Children s Play Background Paper, which also explores the concept of play and the history of play in the context of the City of Adelaide. While the Children s Play Action Plan aligns with a number of existing local, state and national planning policies and strategies, it is unique and relevant to the City of Adelaide. It looks at ways to capitalise on the City s distinct social, cultural, physical, economic and environmental attributes, particularly its unique Park Land setting. At a time when one in every five children in Australia are now overweight or obese 1, and spending more time indoors and doing sedentary activities, never has it been more important to support the City s youngest residents and visitors to actively use its open space. All play is important to a child s psychological, social and physical development. However, this Action Plan focuses on active outdoor play, which research shows to provide greater benefit, particularly when undertaken in natural environments. The Action Plan is primarily concerned with children aged 0-12 years and the associated needs of their parents and carers. However, it also recognises the benefit of investing in facilities that cater for children and young people, such as skate parks, community courts and BMX tracks. Page 2

3 3.1 Key Objectives The primary objectives of the Children s Play Action Plan are to: Ensure new and existing playspaces in the City provide a high level of play value; Ensure there are unique and diverse play experiences across the City; Promote themes within playspaces connecting sites to the Park Lands and their environmental, cultural, and social contexts; Increase play opportunities across the City, particularly along the Riverbank and in the Squares; Ensure play is accessible to City residents and visitors; Encourage more children and families to actively play outdoors and interact with nature; Promote community well-being and social interaction through play; Raise awareness of the importance of play for children and build the community s knowledge of play opportunities in the City; Contribute to the liveability of the City; and Ensure future planning and provision of playspaces considers the needs of children of all ages and their families / carers. 3.2 Strategic Context & Guiding Principles The Children s Play Action Plan responds directly to Council's Active City Strategy This Strategy contains six policy principles that inform Council s priorities for physical activity in the City. The principles underpin the Active City Strategy and inform the Children s Play Action Plan. These principles and how they guide children s playspaces is outlined in Diagram 2. Strategic alignment of the Children s Play Action Plan The City of Adelaide Strategic Plan Park Lands Management Strategy Active City Strategy Children s Play Action Plan Annual Business Plan and Budget Page 3

4 Diagram 1: Guiding Principles of the Active City Strategy. Guiding Principles What does this mean for our playspaces? Maximum Participation Resources will be prioritised to providing play opportunities that many people can participate in; support multi-purpose facilities and infrastructure redevelopment that achieve multiple play outcomes and result in maximum participation by the community. Health and Wellbeing for All Optimal Facilities and Opportunities Working with Partners Economic Sustainability An informed and Educated Community Play opportunities will be accessible to children, regardless of age, cultural background, socio economic status or ability. Barriers to participation, such as cost and physical access will be addressed. A variety of facilities and services will be supported to ensure the community has choices in relation to play. We will provide the best possible experiences for children to play through a placemaking approach that is informed by the community. Places for play will be fit for purpose, well designed, utilise the Park Lands and natural environment, minimise the ecological footprint and ensure best performance through the 'whole of life cycle'. We will trial new and innovative ideas for providing children play opportunities in the City. We will partner with other local, state and federal government agencies, educational institutions, community organisations and the private sector to deliver more opportunities and deliver dedicated playspaces sooner. We will facilitate projects and programs where partners can take the lead. We will work with the community to build capacity to co-create place and programs that enable children to play and be active when and where they want. We will use our partners' knowledge to identify trends, best practice and evaluate our projects. We will ensure that children's play facilities are commercially responsive to the market and managed in a manner that ensures maximum participation and value for money on behalf of the community. In partnership with key organisations, we will communicate the benefits of pursuing an active and healthy lifestyle, the importance of play to a child's development and promote the range physical activity and play opportunities available in the City. We will utilise appropriate methods to engage with the community and empower the community to inform and influence what we plan and provide. There are a number of other strategies and policies that relate to the Children s Play Action Plan (see Appendix 1). Page 4

5 3.3. Legislative Context and Australian Standards The Children s Play Action Plan aligns with a number of legislative requirements, codes and practices that affect the provision of dedicated playspaces. These include the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, the Building Code of Australia (BCA), Duty of Care and Due Diligence and Best Practice (see 5.6). Additionally, a number of Australian Standards relate directly or indirectly to the provision of playspaces. Whilst Australian Standards are not mandatory, they are legally recognised as being the minimum acceptable standard required in any particular subject. AS 4685:2014 Parts 1 to 6 were revised and published in April The revised standard is an adoption of the European Standard for Playground Equipment EN 1176:2008 Parts 1 to 6 with some minor deviations that take account of specific Australian safety and design requirements such as higher UV exposure. The new standard promotes fun and enjoyment over risk aversion, and supports the development of key skills in risk-taking and judgement. Page 5

6 4. Research and Trends The Children s Play Action Plan has been informed by stakeholder engagement and an analysis of the City s existing playspaces. This helped to identify the strengths of the current playspaces within the City as well as ignite ideas and opportunities to improve the play value and provision of playspaces. 4.1 Strengths of the City s existing playspaces Size most are large in area and surrounded by open space Many are located in pleasant surroundings within the Adelaide Park Lands making them accessible to surrounding communities Most are well supported by amenities They are relatively safe to access and use. Provide play opportunities for large number of users at one time. 4.2 Challenges of the City s existing playspaces There is a level of sameness with regards to play options and themes Most cater for younger age groups only Most cater for one age group only Most are fenced and situated hard-up alongside roads Most are poorly integrated with surrounding Park Lands Most of the Squares and the Riverbank lack formal invitations / facilities for play (with the exception of Victoria Square which has recently been upgraded to include a water feature which provides opportunities for children to play; note, there is a general consensus that the design of Hindmarsh Square playspace is not conducive to play) There are virtually no dedicated playspaces within the Square mile. The Action Plan also takes into account various independent research and recommendations, as outlined in the Children s Play Background Paper (refer to separate document), including: Population and demographic forecasts for the City of Adelaide Existing and forecast visitation numbers for the City of Adelaide Ideas collected from the Bonython Park adventure playspace competition in September 2012 A Play Australia' workshop with over 40 stakeholders in early 2014 City User Profile Surveys Picture Adelaide and research Analysis of key-trends and best-practice in playspace provision and design from around the world Diagram 2: Key trends and best-practice in playspace design and provision: Key trends / Best- What does this mean for our playspaces? Practice Nature Play Customised play equipment Playspaces that use the natural landscape and environment as the play setting provide children with more opportunities to exercise develop gross-motor skills and connect with nature. Moving away from off-the-shelf standardised play equipment, in favour of unique pieces as a lure to attract children to play outdoors and engage with nature, while also offering parents / carers with a point of difference. Page 6

7 Appropriate catchment of playspaces Universal access Incorporate elements of risk and challenge Play in urban environments Combine public art with play Incorporate tactical sensory play Utilise temporary playspaces Neighbourhoods need local playspaces that are convenient and easy to reach, typically within 300m; regional playspaces are up to 5km, metropolitan over 10km. Playspaces need to be accessible for children of all ages and abilities (and their carers) and incorporate multiple play opportunities in the one site. Playspaces should include a degree of physical challenge to support children to take risks in a stimulating and controlled environment. The UK-based Centre for Architecture and the Built Environment emphasises the need to identify opportunities to enhance the playability of all urban environments, not just in parks and open spaces. This can include embedding play elements on streets, footpaths, community hubs, within residential apartment complexes and retail precincts. Often these elements can encourage people of all ages to play, not just children. Public art can create a sense of place and belonging within a playspace, and can reinforce connections to heritage and culture. Public art can help attract people to a playspace and also serve functional roles such as signage, entrance statements, fencing, seating, tables and shelters. Art can also offer interactive and sensory elements to further heighten the pay value. Similarly, public art outside of playspaces should look to offer play opportunities for children while contributing aesthetically to the City environment. This would be particularly beneficial within areas of the City, such as retail or shopping precincts, where playspace settings may not be possible. Playspaces should incorporate a range of sensory elements where possible that can stimulate a child s sense of texture, sound, colour, pattern, light, smell, space and motion. Sensory activities facilitate exploration and naturally encourage children to use a range of skills while they play, create, investigate and explore. Examples of sensory play opportunities can include the use of sound and musical instruments, elements that move and respond to touch such as abacus beads or drums, different planting and interactive sculptures, bright and colorful patterns that children can follow and explore, and materials that that provide textures, smells, shapes and forms, such as sand pits or water-based play. The use of lights and transparent materials, different vegetation and plantings that change with the seasons, art pieces that tell a story and different height levels that offer varying views can also engage different senses. Temporary and moveable playspaces can provide flexible, play opportunities in spaces that wouldn t normally facilitate permanent play structures as well as provide provisional playspaces at events or community activities that attract children. Temporary playspaces can have different individual parts that can be moved, delivered and packed away easily. The individual parts also mean that children of all ages and abilities can create their own playspaces, in their own way and on their own terms. Page 7

8 5. Children s Playspace Action Plan Adelaide City Council s vision for Children s Play in the City of Adelaide is based on four key outcomes, which describe the characteristics proposed for the City s playspaces ten years from now and into the future: Outcome 1 Inclusive (People and Engagement) Playspaces are inclusive of children of all backgrounds, interests and abilities and are informed and developed through community engagement and a placemaking approach. Outcome 2 Well-located (Place and Accessibility) Playspaces are well positioned, easy and convenient to access, and service the needs of City residents, students and visitors. Outcome 3 Inspiring (Play Value and Programming) Playspaces inspire, engage, entertain and challenge children to play, are designed to complement their location and contain features and themes that provide different play experiences. Outcome 4 Inviting (Promotion and Amenities) Playspaces are well promoted, and are inviting and welcoming for families and friends to connect, socialise and be active. Page 8

9 Diagram 3: Proposed future placement of play opportunities in the City: Enhanced Playspace Bush Magic Glover North Enhanced Playspace (moved from Park 10 to Park 9) Nature Based Play Wellington Square Lower North Adelaide Explore opportunities for a new urban skate plaza and play elements in the Riverbank Precinct Enhanced Playspace Bonython Park Riverbank Enhanced Playspace New local nature based play in Whitmore, Hurtle and Wellington (if community feedback is favourable) Urban Play Opportunities through Public Art and design elements Whitmore Square Glover South Hurtle Square Rymill Park Glover East Victoria Park Nature Based Play Proposed new Playspace Explore options to introduce play opportunities within Activity Hubs in the Western Park Lands. Princess Elizabeth Kurangga Marshmallow Park Enhanced Playspaces Metropolitan Playspace Regional Playspace Local Play Opportunities Note: While the above diagram outlines local play opportunities to primarily service the needs of Citybased residents, opportunities could be explored to potentially collaborate and co-fund with surrounding Council s to locate, install and maintain playspaces and / or play opportunities in the Park Lands in locations closer to inner-rim communities to help service the projected population growth and local play role in surrounding suburbs. Approaches from neighbouring Councils could be explored to determine how these could best be integrated, co-funded and delivered in the context of each Park. Page 9

10 5.1 OUTCOME 1 - INCLUSIVE (PEOPLE AND ENGAGEMENT) Playspaces are inclusive of children of all backgrounds, interests and abilities and are informed and developed through community engagement and a placemaking approach Engage the community, especially children, in the design, development and management of playspaces in the City Facilitate opportunities for the community to actively participate in the development and maintenance of playspaces in the City, such as the planting and maintenance of garden beds Provide children with opportunities to inform the development of youth recreation facilities such as a new City skate park and upgrade to the Kurangga BMX Track, to ensure their needs are considered along with the needs of young people, whose skills and confidence are likely to be more developed Incorporate universal design principles in the enhancement and development of all playspaces to ensure they are fully accessible to people of all abilities, including people with a disability Design playspaces with different features and challenges to accommodate a diverse range of social, cultural and physical needs as well as different ages and experiences Provide opportunities for artworks developed and / or inspired by children to be incorporated into playspaces. 5.1 INCLUSIVE KEY ACTIONS 1 Engage with relevant schools, childcare and community groups when planning works on playspaces near or adjacent City schools / childcare facilities. 2 Engage with the general community to inform all improvements to playspaces in the City. 3 Explore opportunities to improve the street frontage and general appearance of Princess Elizabeth, Glover North and Glover South playspaces, including options to install children s artwork along the front fences. 4 Work with City schools and community groups to commission artworks at playspaces. 5 Ensure Universal Design principles are embedded in the enhancement and establishment of future playspaces. Lead Active City Active City Vibrant City Vibrant City City Design and Transport Short Term (1-2 years) Princess Elizabeth Mid Term (2-5 years) Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Long Term (5+ years) Glover North & Glover south Page 10

11 5.2 OUTCOME 2 - WELL-LOCATED (PLACE AND ACCESSIBILITY) Playspaces are well positioned, easy and convenient to access, and service the needs of City residents, students and visitors Consistent with the Active City Strategy, implement a Playspace Hierarchy of local, regional and metropolitan playspaces across the City (see diagram 3 and 4) Identify new locations for playspaces in the City and Park Lands that cater for the growing residential and visitor population Co-locate new and existing regional or metropolitan playspaces within Activity Hubs and close to well used facilities that families visit or use, such as schools. Ideally, link these playspaces to Park Lands Trails to enhance access by residents and visitors Better position playspaces within the Park Lands by establishing and renewing playspaces away from roadways, where possible, minimising the need for fencing and strengthening connections with the surrounding Park Lands Explore partnership opportunities with the State Government, surrounding Council s, schools and other organisations to fund the establishment and ongoing maintenances of new regional, metropolitan and local playspaces Explore opportunities to collaborate and co-fund with surrounding Council s to locate playspaces and / or play opportunities in the Park Lands to help service the local play role for inner metro Councils Decommission playspaces that are deemed to be surplus or identified as no longer appropriately located. Ensure the community is consulted prior to undertaking removal or relocation of a playspace Explore opportunities to provide local, nature-based playspaces in City Squares to support the surrounding residential community Ensure playspaces are specifically designed for their location and respond to and reflect the physical, social, cultural and heritage value of the surrounding environment Work with educational institutions to support play opportunities located close to City and surrounding schools Seek the support of City based educational institutions to facilitate community access to school s play facilities when not in school-use Enhance nature play opportunities by improving access to existing biodiversity revegetation sites to encourage explorative play of these natural areas. These modifications can include natural material paths, steps, boardwalks, interpretation and the placement of natural elements (e.g. rocks, logs) to encourage play Incorporate play opportunities within the public realm, such as on wide walkways / footpaths, stairs and furniture, where appropriate Advocate for the inclusion of play opportunities in new high density developments, or seek a contribution from property owners to enhance nearby community spaces with play For metropolitan and regional playspaces consider transport and accessibility options for visitors as part of the concept designs and as part of the community engagement process Consider the impact of existing event locations when identifying new locations for playspaces and engage with event organisers in the location and establishment of any new dedicated playspaces. Page 11

12 Diagram 4: Hierarchy of children s playspaces in the City of Adelaide Playspace Type Main Purpose / description Desirable distance from home Age group Typical level of investment Examples of features Local Provide an outdoor space within easy walking distance from residents' home; usage is typically a short stay up to an hour. Within a 5-10 minute walk ( m 3 ) 0-6 years Low- up to $150k Minor landscaping Climbable objects Seating for carers Natural shade Regional Designed to attract visitors from a number of local government areas, regional playspaces provide an even broader range of play opportunities and amenities, which will allow for a longer stay. It is anticipated that users will walk, cycle and drive to the facility / place. They are often collocated with sports reserve or other recreation facilities, which are likely to have more amenities than smaller parks (including off-street parking, toilets, picnic and BBQ facilities, shade structures). Up to 5km All ages Medium up to $800k Landscaping with natural play features Play elements that support children to swing, slide and climb Natural shade Sand play Kick about spaces Sports court Metropolitan Caters for visitors across the greater metropolitan areas of Adelaide. They are large, signature playspaces and have unique physical and natural qualities and facilities. People will travel significant distances to visit and utilise a metropolitan facilities, with all forms of transport needs provided for including walking, cycling, driving and public transport. Length of stay will typically range from several hours to a whole day. Can be over 10km All ages High Over $800k Multiple funding partners Landscaping with natural play features Play elements integrated into the landscaping that supports children to swing, slide and climb Shade structures/large shade trees Sand and water play Kick about spaces Sports courts and exercise equipment Supporting elements such as BBQ facilities and toilets Close to car parking and public transport Page 12

13 5.2 WELL-LOCATED KEY ACTIONS 6 Provide interactive elements that support incidental play in Hindmarsh Square and Light Square. 7 Provide local level play opportunities to City residents through the provision of nature based play elements in Whitmore, Hurtle and Wellington Square see diagram 5 and 6. 8 Re-locate the Lower North Adelaide playspace in Park 10 to (Tidlangga, Park 9) to build on the existing community recreation facilities - see diagram 7. 9 As part of future upgrades to Glover North (Nanto Womma, Park 6) and Glover South (Kurrangga, Park 20), explore opportunities to expand these playspaces away from the road and integrate with the surrounding Park Lands see diagram 8 and Decommission the West Terrace playground following completion of upgrades to Princess Elizabeth Playground and establishment of local playscape in Whitmore Square. 11 Enhance the Rymill Park playspace to strengthen connections with the kiosk and open space areas, taking design inspiration from the lake - see diagram Establish new metropolitan playspaces in Victoria Park as per the Masterplan - see diagram 11 and Work with key stakeholders to provide natural play opportunities in Glover East (Ityamaiitpinna, Park 15). Subject to community feedback, decommission Glover East (Park 15) following enhancements in Rymill Park and Victoria Park see diagram 11/12. Lead City Design & Transport Active City / City Design & Transport Active City Active City Active City / Infrastructure Management Active City Active City / City Design & Transport Active City / Infrastructure Management Short Term (1-2 years) Hurtle Square & Whitmore Square Timing dependent on other works Mid Term (2-5 years) Hindmarsh and Light Square Wellington Square Timing dependent on other works Long Term (5+ years) Victoria Park Page 13

14 14 As part of a future upgrade to Bush Magic (Park 2), re-establish the playspace closer to the Adelaide Aquatic Centre kiosk entry and public toilets - see diagram Explore funding and partnering opportunities with the State Government to establish an urban skate plaza and play opportunities for children within the Riverbank Precinct. 16 Improve access to existing biodiversity revegetation sites to enhance access and explorative play. Prioritise Bonython Park see diagram Introduce playful elements in the public realm via urban design and public art initiatives. Active City / City Design & Transport City Design & Transport City Sustainability & Park Lands Vibrant City / City Design & Transport Ongoing Page 14

15 5.2 WELL-LOCATED Future Siting Options for Dedicated Playspaces Action 7 Subject to feedback from the community, provide local level play opportunities to City residents through the provision of nature based play elements in Hurtle, Wellington and Whitmore Square. Consult with the local community regarding the need and design for local play in Squares. If feedback from community is supportive, ensure play elements are specifically designed for their location and respond to and reflect the physical, social, cultural and heritage value and character of the Squares and surrounding environment. Ensure that access to squares is considered and improved. Explore opportunities for local community to be involved in design, implementation and upkeep of local playspace. Explore opportunities in Whitmore and Hurtle Square in the first instance, and then if feedback from the community is supportive, look at options for Wellington Square. Diagram 5: Artist impression of an example of natural play opportunities in Whitmore Square Diagram 6: Artist impression of an example of natural play opportunities in Hurtle Square Note: If the community is supportive of the idea of providing play opportunities in the Squares, it is recommended that any introduction of play elements should be mindful of the landscape features and historic character of each area. Page 15

16 Action 8 Re-locate the Lower North Adelaide playspace in Park 10 to (Tidlangga, Park 9) to build on the existing community recreation facilities. Lower North Adelaide Playspace (Tidlangga, Park 9) Relocate playspace from Park 10 to Park 9. Integrate with community oval (kick about space) and community court facilities. Integrate predominantly natural play features with some unique equipment that takes into account the surrounding environment. Utilise natural shade opportunities and area either side of community courts. Manage as local/regional playspace. Play opportunities either side Courts Playspace Playspace Petanque Piste 3-on-3 Court Sports field Diagram 7: Proposed re-location of an enhanced local / regional playspace in Tidlangga (Park 9). Page 16

17 Action 9 As part of future upgrades to Glover North (Nanto Womma, Park 6) and Glover South (Kurrangga, Park 20), explore opportunities to expand these playspaces away from the road and integrate with the surrounding Park Lands. Glover North (Nanto Womma, Park 6) Position Glover North Playspace so that it s back from road and integrated with the surrounding Park Lands. Strengthen visual and physical connection with horse paddocks and community facilities through the selective removal of fences on the Park Lands side. Better connectivity with the Park Lands Trail Ensure CPTED principles are used to ensure passive surveillance from roadway is maintained. Maximise existing natural shade Integrate with community oval (kick about space) Manage as a regional playspace Diagram 8: Position Glover North Playspace so that it s back from road and better integrated with the surround Park Lands. Page 17

18 Action 9 - continued Glover South (Kurrangga, Park 20) Position Glover South Playspace so that it s back from road and integrated with the surround Park Lands. Better connectivity with the Park Lands Trail Ensure CPTED principles are used to ensure passive surveillance from roadway is maintained. Maximise existing natural shade to the south and expand playspace through increased natural play opportunities. Strengthen visual and physical connection with sports fields (kick about space) and community use courts through the selective removal of fences on the Park Lands side and use of natural barriers in a fanned out pattern on the roadside. Introduce bike parking facilities to support use. Enhance the playspace through the provision of amenities such as drink fountains, bike racks and additional BBQ s. Take into account heritage considerations of the precinct and/or associated buildings/structures as part of the planning and concept design processes. Manage as regional playspace. Location of existing playspace Enhanced Diagram 9: Proposed expansion and enhancement of the regional playspace in Glover South (Kurrangga, Park 20) - Potential for replacement of fence on roadside with natural barriers in a fanned out pattern. Page 18

19 Action 11 Enhance the Rymill Park/ Murlawirrapurka playspace to strengthen connections with the kiosk and open space areas, taking design inspiration from the lake. Expand and enhance existing playspace to the south to strengthen connections with the kiosk and open space areas Aid viability of kiosk Take design cue from lake and other dominant park features Ensure consideration of the playspace is undertaken concurrently with the future master planning for the Lake in Rymill Park. Enhance the playground through the provision of amenities such as drink fountains, shelters bike racks etc. Strengthen connection to other built elements such as the nearby bowling club and wayfinding signage to toilets. Create as a key nodal point on the Park Lands Trail. Provide custom designed unique play equipment and traditional play items integrated with nature play Explore opportunities to include some purpose-made equipment for children who are mobility impaired. Take into account heritage considerations of the precinct and/or associated buildings/structures as part of the planning and concept design processes. Manage as metropolitan playspace Location of existing playspace Proposed location of enhanced Diagram 10: Proposed location of an enhanced playspace in Rymill Park/Mullawirraburka Page 19

20 Action 12 Establish a new metropolitan playspaces in Victoria Park/Pakapakanthi. Design and establish an all-abilities metropolitan playspace to complement the growth of the surrounding community recreation and sport hub and aid viability of nearby kiosk, café and grandstand. Complement proposed location of 3 on 3 / community court within precinct. Ensure playspaces incorporates high quality landscape and incorporates Universal Design principles and features to enable use by children of all ages and abilities. Explore opportunities to include some purpose-made equipment for children who are mobility impaired. Take into account heritage considerations of the precinct and/or associated buildings/structures as part of the planning and concept design processes. Explore external funding partnerships for establishment and ongoing maintenance. Enhance the playspace through the provision of amenities such as bike racks etc. Proposed Restaurant Proposed Cafe Diagram 11: Proposed location of a new metropolitan playspace in Victoria Park/Pakapakanthi. Page 20

21 Action 13 Work with key stakeholders to provide natural play opportunities in Glover East (Ityamaiitpinna, Park 15). Subject to community feedback, decommission existing playground Glover East (Park 15) following enhancement of nature place opportunities, and enhancements in Rymill Park and Victoria Park. Introduce nature play enhancements and opportunities, linking with Olive Groves and surrounding area. Work with students and staff at surrounding schools to inform the design and play opportunities to be incorporated. Subject to community feedback, decommission existing playground following enhancement of nature play opportunities and the enhancement of playspace in Rymill Park and introduction of playspace in Victoria Park. Explore opportunities for area becoming a key node on the Park Lands trail and ensuring existing path is connected to Park Lands trail. Take into account heritage considerations of the precinct and/or associated buildings/structures as part of the planning and concept design processes. Decommission existing playspace Nature play area Shared used path Diagram 12: Proposed location of a new nature playspace in Ityamaiitpinna, Park 15 Page 21

22 Action 14 As part of a future upgrade to Bush Magic (Padipadinyilla / Park 2), re-establish the playspace closer to the Adelaide Aquatic Centre kiosk entry and public toilets. Re-establish and enhance existing playspace to strengthen connections with Adelaide Aquatic centre and outdoor kiosk area. Explore opportunities to add to play offering by including a children s unsealed bike track nearby. Expand the water play and leisure options at the Adelaide Aquatic Centre. Take design cue from the Aquatic Centre and other dominant park features. Enhance accessibility of playspace including wheelchair access and bike racks. Ensure that the proposed bike track and playspace are connected to the Park Lands trail network. Manage as metropolitan playspace Potential bike track Playspace Fitness Loop Community Courts with amenities Aquatic Centre Park Lands Trail Diagram 13: Proposed location of enhanced playspace in Bush Magic (Padipadinyilla/Park 2). Page 22

23 Action 17 Improve access to existing biodiversity revegetation sites to enhance access and explorative play. Prioritise Bonython Park. Explore opportunities to improve accessibility to existing biodiversity sites to encourage nature play. Elements to be interactive and encourage explorative play. Diagram 14: Existing biodiversity site in Bonython Park / Tulya Wardli. Page 23

24 5.3 OUTCOME 3 - INSPIRING (PLAY VALUE AND PROGRAM) Playspaces inspire, engage, entertain and challenge children to play, are designed to complement their location and contain features and themes that provide different play experiences Ensure each playspace provides a high level of play value, as per the Children s Playspace Development Model (see diagram 15) and giving consideration to the various different types of play on offer, the type of equipment and the quality of supporting elements nearby (see diagram 16) Ensure each playspace is assessed for its play value prior at least every years, and prior to any enhancements or renewal works, to help inform the planning and budgeting of renewal or enhancement works (excluding general maintenance). Use the Children s Playspace Development Model to assess the play value Introduce a new workflow process for the determination of new or enhancement of existing playspaces (see diagram 19) Prioritise the provision and enhancement of nature play opportunities to encourage children and families to spend time and connect with nature; where possible, use natural materials such as stones, sand, water, logs and plants in playspaces to encourage children to connect with nature, provide tactical and sensory experiences, enhance the natural park setting and reduce the environmental footprint of playspaces in the City Reduce the dominance of manufactured play equipment in playspaces; where play equipment is considered appropriate seek opportunities to customise equipment through manufacturers or public art to ensure there is diversity of options and a variety of play experiences across the City To ensure diversity of experiences across the City, identify distinct themes into key playspaces that can be illustrated through design techniques, play features, materials and signage (see diagram 18) Explore opportunities to unfence playspaces or use natural barriers instead (such as hedging or different gradients) to encourage greater connection with the surrounding Park Lands, unless necessary, for example, when a playspace is located right near a main road or close to water Incorporate public art into playspaces by partnering with artists, schools and organisations to introduce works, and ensure artists are engaged early on in the enhancement or establishment of any new playspace to help inform the design and add to the conceptual thinking for the setting Explore opportunities for continued use of temporary and pop up playspaces in key locations and at community events and activities Encourage the community and event organisers to host children events, activities and festivals in the City Explore opportunities to measure the utilisation of playspaces via gate counters (where gates are maintained) or site evaluation counts to track usage volumes and to help inform ongoing planning for each playspace. Page 24

25 Diagram 15: Children s Playspace Development Model (Active City Strategy ) Children play because it is fun. They relish the chance to be engaged in activities with friends (or complete strangers) that are enjoyable and challenging. Their enjoyment has its own obvious value. The following table also highlights the intrinsic value that play can provide. Diagram 16: Play type and supporting elements that should be assessed on existing playspaces before undertaking any enhancement works Play type and elements Creative Play Movement Nature Based Supporting Elements Play Equipment Description It is through creative play that children will most often spend their time interacting with other children. Activities can include: digging, shaping, moulding, constructing, demolishing, exploring, discovering and changing Movement is essential for the physical development, coordination, fitness, endurance, spatial perception, strength and the development of gross and fine-motor-skills. It can be catered through traditional play equipment as well as water and nature-based environments. Activities can include: running, jumping, swimming, splashing, rolling, hopping, spinning, bounding, bending and crawling. Children s mental health and emotional well-being is enhanced by contact with the outdoors and the restorative effects are strongest in natural settings. Nature based play can be incorporated into playspaces through a range of natural materials and textures (such as water and sand). It can also be featured by utilising the natural contours of the land, using environmentally-inspired structures (such as tree logs and rocks), ensuring play equipment and supporting elements are imbedded into the landscape (i.e. using the same colours found in the natural surroundings) and plantings that encourage insects and flora to create opportunities for sensory stimulation and play. Supporting elements such as shade, seating and toilets are critical to user comfort and enjoyment. Access elements also need to be considered and incorporated such as bike racks, links to pathways, parking and public transport, importantly, the longer a carer is willing to stay, the longer a child can play. Play equipment has a role in most designated playspaces. However, play equipment is only one of many ways children play in the environment. Page 25

26 Diagram 17: Children s Playspace Provision Lifecycle (Active City Strategy ) Create new play value Design Year Cycle Maintain Assess Diagram 18: Proposed themes to be developed for key playspaces Location Theme Rationale Bonython Park Adventure Wide open spaces with visitation typically consisting of large multigenerational groups. Victoria Park Inclusion A highly developed park with excellent access around the heritage grandstand precinct, in the future containing cafes and alike. Rymill Park Children s Garden An attractive family orientated park with a high level of landscape amenity. Opportunity to reflect this landscape in a unique play setting taking inpiration from the lake and surrounding gardens. Riverbank Urban As it develops, the Riverbank Precinct will be a high visitor destination suited to accommodating a range of children and youth facilities including opportunities for a skate plaza. Park 20 BMX Build on the success of the existing BMX facility and increased options. Park 2 Water Play Expand the water play and leisure options at the Adelaide Aquatic Centre. Page 26

27 Diagram 19: Process for Playspace Provision New and Existing Playspaces New Playspace Existing Playspace Confirm the role and hierarchy classification of the playspace Seek/confirm ACC budget allocation for implementation in the following financial year and identify potential project partners Community engagement Needed - Enhancement Assess play value and identify gaps and opportunities Not Needed Community Engagement Decommission Needed Renewal Concept Design Community Engagement Confirm project partners and external funding Assess play value and replace infrastructure with equivalent or better play value in keeping with overall vision for playspace. Concept development and detailed designs Contract development and construction Awareness Campaign Measure community satisfaction and utilisation of playspaces Ongoing Maintenance Page 27

28 5.3 INSPIRING KEY ACTIONS 18 Review the purpose and play value (see diagram 15) of each playspace at least every 10 to 15 years, and prior to any renewal or enhancement. Lead Active City Short Term (1-2 years) Mid Term (2-5 years) Ongoing Long Term (5+ years) 19 Introduce a new internal workflow process (see diagram 19) for the determination of new or enhancement of existing playspaces. 20 Introduce new nature play opportunities in existing and new playspaces where possible, including Park 15, Whitmore, Hurtle and Wellington Square and Park Identify and introduce a theme into key places (see diagram 18) and support theme through signage, unique customised equipment and public art. 22 Assess the need for traditional fencing on a case by case basis and replace where possible with natural barriers such as mounding or vegetation. 23 Partner with Adelaide University s Children s University to develop activity nature trail resources for the Adelaide Park Lands targeting primary aged school children. 24 Incorporate public art elements into playspaces and engage artists early to help inform the design of new or enhancement of existing playspaces. Infrastructure Management /Active City Active City / City Design & Transport Active City Infrastructure Management / Active City Active City Vibrant City / City Design & Transport Ongoing Ongoing 25 Seek external funding opportunities and partnerships with educational institutions and local, state and federal government agencies to support playspace improvements. Active City Ongoing 26 Encourage small, medium and major event organisers to incorporate Council s Imagination Playgrounds in their event set ups. Vibrant City / Active City Ongoing 27 Support and encourage children events, activities and festivals in the City. Vibrant City Ongoing Page 28

29 28 Program recreational activities and events nearby playspaces to encourage incidental use. 29 Introduce recreational sporting supplies such as totem tennis and bocce sets in Bonython Park and Victoria Park to encourage passive recreation near playspaces. Active City Active City Ongoing Page 29

30 5.4 OUTCOME 4 - INVITING (PROMOTION AND AMENITIES) Playspaces are well promoted, and are inviting and welcoming for families and friends to connect, socialise and be active In accordance with the Playspace Hierarchy (diagram 3 and 4), ensure new playspaces provide appropriate nearby amenities to complement play experiences Explore opportunities for infrastructure which enables mobile food vendors as well as permanent facilities for kiosks and cafes to operate nearby regional and metropolitan playspaces Incorporate Crime Prevention through Environmental Design principles and techniques to ensure visitors to playspaces feel safe Appropriately name playspaces to reflect their character and individuality. Identify these names through community engagement as playspaces are enhanced or developed Once renamed, provide adequate way-finding signage leading to and around playspaces to make it easier for people to locate and identify playspaces Investigate opportunities to light key playspaces to enable use in the early evening Ensure playspaces are visited by maintenance staff daily for a visual check to ensure any hazardous issues are handled and resolved promptly Regularly clean and maintain playspaces to ensure they are attractive, inviting and of a clean and tidy appearance Independent audit of the physical condition of playspaces every 2-3 years to inform future maintenance and enhancements plans Partner with the State Government and other organisations to promote the benefits of nature play for children, including nature play opportunities on offer in the Adelaide Park Lands Build awareness of the City s playspaces and play opportunities amongst City residents, students and visitors through targeted marketing campaigns, partnering with key stakeholders and community groups and via online, digital and social media. Page 30

31 5.4 INVITING KEY ACTIONS 30 Ensure appropriate infrastructure such as power and water is in place near new playspaces to enable mobile food vendors. 31 Explore opportunities to utilise existing or create new commercial facilities close to playspaces, ideally as part of an Activity Hub. 32 Identify distinct names for playspaces through engagement with the community as new playspaces are developed and existing playspaces are renewed. 33 As part of the Park Lands Way- Finding project, appropriately sign playspaces so they are easy to locate. 34 Carry out daily inspections of playspaces to ensure any hazardous issues are addressed promptly. 35 Carry out weekly cleaning and maintenance inspections of playspaces. 36 Audit the condition of playspaces every two to three years to inform future maintenance and enhancement plans. Lead Infrastructure Management Infrastructure Management Active City with Marketing & Creative City Design & Transport Public Realm Public Realm Infrastructure Management Short Term (1-2 years) Mid Term (2-5 years) Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Long Term (5+ years) 37 Partner with Nature Play SA to promote the benefits and opportunities for nature play in the Adelaide Park Lands, targeting parents and teachers. 38 Undertake a marketing campaign targeted at City residents, visitors and schools in the City to provide information and promote play opportunities in the City. 39 Evaluate the community s satisfaction of a playspace improvement or establishment within 18 months of completion. Active City Marketing & Creative Active City Page 31

32 6. OVERVIEW OF PROPOSED VISION FOR PLAY OPPORTUNITIES IN THE CITY OF ADELAIDE Diagram 21: Existing Playspaces / Play Opportunities Name / location Hierarchy Features Key stakeholders / partnership opportunities Princess Elizabeth - Minno Wirra, Park 21 Regional Currently undergoing major enhancement to incorporate remembrance, educative and interpretive area, sensory and music activities and play, little children s play, older children s play and community space Explore opportunities to incorporate public art. Local resident and community groups Local school Art community Sporting clubs and users of the sports fields Surrounding Councils Nearby schools Budget Already allocated for Stage 1 and Stage 2 Upgrade Timeframe 0-1 year (in progress) Bonython Park - Tulya Wardli Metropolitan Existing playspace has undergone a recent enhancements Explore opportunities to introduce recreational sporting supplies in Bonython Park to encourage passive recreation near playspaces. Explore opportunities to improve access to nearby biodiversity revegetation site to encourage explorative nature play State Government Surrounding Councils Bonython Kiosk Event industry Needs budget (up to $150k) for improving accessibility to biodiversity site to come from enhancement budget); Rec Sporting supplies as part of existing budget Rec sporting supplies: 1-2 years Improve accessibility to biodiversity site to encourage play: 2-5 years Page 32