Work starts on new beachside playground
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Work is getting under way on New Brighton's beachside playground, with community leaders heralding the project as a new beginning for the seaside suburb.
On Monday morning the site of the playground, which is located between the existing play area and the library, was blessed and the first sod turned by Coastal-Burwood Community Board Chair Kim Money and Coastal Ward Councillor David East, assisted by local school children.
New Brighton youngsters Chelo Flood, (left) Arlo Franklin and Rosie Richards helped Cr David East turn the first sod at the new playground.
Cr East said he was absolutely delighted to see the project get under way.
“The playground design is based on the ideas of the community, following a great consultation process which engaged young people in the area and local schools to ensure we have the right themes, equipment and the support of the local community.
"I'm looking forward to seeing the playground completed, and then see work get underway on the next stage - development of the hot salt water pools," Cr East said.
Mrs Money said it was the beginning of the new, New Brighton.
“The rebuild of the playground will bring new life to the area; it is a wonderful, fun way to begin changing the future of New Brighton and we still have more things to come. We are living in very exciting times. This 'Nan-nan' can't wait to watch her grandchildren enjoying the playground while sitting chatting to others.
"We are very thankful to the Council, Development Christchurch and everyone involved for their commitment to our community. Let the fun begin,'' Mrs. Money said.
The playground will feature a mix of dry and wet play equipment, a new splash pool and the much-loved New Brighton whale. Children will discover new equipment to climb, swing, push, pull, and create. The playground’s design is based on ideas gathered from the community and local school children, which were presented to the community as a concept design in July.
Feedback from that process is now being worked into the final design, while initial groundworks get under way.
DCL Chief Executive Rob Hall said it had been a true community-led process.
“It is fantastic to get on with the first phase of construction in New Brighton. The new playground will be an excellent attraction for visitors and Christchurch residents, and will kick-start New Brighton’s regeneration.
“Local residents have told us they are keen to see action on this project, and this is just the first stage in a wider plan for the suburb’s revitalisation. We’ll have consultation underway soon on the Council-funded Hot Pools development, and our team continues to work on plans to support the revitalisation of the commercial centre.
"We need all of these projects, community-led initiatives, and the private sector to come together for the successful regeneration of New Brighton,” Mr Hall said.
Most of the playground will be completed and open to the public before Christmas so it can be enjoyed throughout summer. The existing paddling pool will remain open during the holiday period, while the final pieces of play equipment and finishing touches are made to the new playground over the rest of the summer season.