Remediation work to start
By Aaron Cordy
COUNCIL will begin work at KidsTown Adventure Playground, which means the park will be closed for three weeks, from Monday, February 16, to Sunday, March 8.
The future of the beloved adventure playground came into sharp focus in July last year when The Adviser reported on the persistent rumours that KidsTown would be abandoned after years of neglect. Following the rallying community outcry to save KidsTown, Council approved a $650,000 budget allocation for the 2025/26 financial year.
The scheduled three weeks of remediation work to prepare the site for future improvements will involve heavy machinery and excavation, making it necessary to close the entire facility to ensure the safety of visitors and contractors.
Council’s Acting Director Infrastructure, Janelle Bunfield, said the closure was an important step in readying KidsTown for the Master Plan consultation and concept phase.
“KidsTown is a much-loved community destination, and it is important we carry out these works in a way that is safe for both visitors and contractors,” said Janelle.
“These works allow us to safely remove ageing infrastructure and prepare the site for future upgrades. To ensure the space remains welcoming and usable, new infrastructure will be installed. This infrastructure has been informed by ideas shared through community consultation and will remain in place as part of KidsTown once the Master Plan is implemented.”
During the closure period, the entire facility will be fenced and closed to the public. The community is asked to observe all signage and remain clear of the site for their own safety.
KidsTown is expected to reopen following the completion of works and final safety inspections. Any changes to the program will be communicated through Council’s usual channels.
Many in the community will keep a keen eye on the works as they know they are a steppingstone to returning KidsTown to its former glory with the much-loved trains running again, and a space children can enjoy for generations to come.
