Wallsend is now home to the city’s largest playground complete with a bike pump track, climbing walls, basketball court, tennis hitting wall and fitness equipment, following the completion of the $2 million Wallsend Active Hub.
Its delivery caps off more than $7.7 million worth of investment by City of Newcastle into four District-level playgrounds across the area during the past five years.
The Federal Park facility will enhance the active recreation options for families across Newcastle’s western suburbs and follows the delivery of multimillion-dollar playground developments at Stevenson Park, Blackbutt’s Richley Reserve and South Stockton.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the Wallsend Active Hub reinforces City of Newcastle’s commitment to delivering recreational opportunities for the community across the area including those in the western suburbs.
“Since 2018, City of Newcastle has completed four District level facilities including the $2 million South Stockton Active Hub, the $2.5 million Blackbutt Adventure Playground at Richley Reserve, and the $1.2 million inclusive, all-abilities playground at Stevenson Park, Mayfield West,” Cr Nelmes said.
“The newly opened $2 million Wallsend Active Hub has transformed Federal Park into a hub of activity, making it a destination not only for local residents but for families from outside the area who will enjoy the mix of informal recreational spaces right beside Wallsend Swimming Centre.
“We know how much our community values open spaces and their local playgrounds, which is why we’re proud to have invested $7.7 million during the past five years into these four significant playground developments.
“These major projects have been delivered alongside our annual playground renewal program that also sees four of Newcastle’s 134 playgrounds upgraded each year, ensuring locals and visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to quality recreation facilities across our city.”
The Wallsend Active Hub draws its inspiration from the Stockton Active Hub and provides a variety of recreation facilities including an expanded playspace, bike track, multi-sport courts, rebound wall, climbing wall and fitness stations.
The construction of the Wallsend Active Hub was supported by a $500,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Resources for Regions program.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said Resources for Regions has been very successful, with rounds one through to eight delivering 242 projects worth $420 million to mining communities since 2012.
“Mining plays a very important part in the NSW economy, supporting tens of thousands of jobs across the state and it will continue to play a role in Newcastle for years to come,” Mr Toole said.
“The NSW Government is committed to supporting regional mining towns that supply our State with these precious resources, and I am pleased these projects will support the ongoing prosperity of the local community.”
City of Newcastle will celebrate the completion of Wallsend Active Hub with the community on Sunday 20 November with a fun, family-friendly opening event from 10am.