One of the largest ever park developments in Logan is underway, with construction set to start on Waterford West District Park next year.
The park will feature a water play zone containing tipping buckets, splash pads and water jets, as well as a running track, a cafe and cooking area.
The project is still in a “preliminary planning” stage, according to Logan City council, but construction is expected to begin in 2024.
In the meantime, several of Logan’s other parks have received major multi-million-dollar upgrades.
Council’s last budget in June earmarked $63 million for the city’s 962 parks, which included management, maintenance and over $13 million for capital works.
Millions of dollars later, Logan parks have seen new playgrounds, upgraded eating areas and even faux dinosaur bones.
Riverdale Park at Meadowbrook recently received a $2.5 million dinosaur-themed upgrade – a theme chosen by students from Loganlea State High School.
The main playground now features a dinosaur skeletal climbing structure, exercise equipment, picnic shelters and additional barbecue facilities.
Springwood Park along Cinderella Drive, which dates to the 1970s, has had a $2.8 million makeover.
The upgrade includes a new internal roadway, increased parking, and roadway lighting, pathways and extensive stormwater infrastructure and landscaping.
The existing playground was retained and is due for replacement next year.
Local councillor Lisa Bradley said the park was used by residents of all ages.
“The new roadway and parking make it easier to access everything the park offers,” Cr Bradley said.
“But what I am particularly happy about is all the works have been done with respect to the existing natural environment which has been preserved for generations to come.”
Lincoln Green Park at Forestdale has had new play equipment installed, along with two new double shelters, picnic settings, a platform seat, drinking fountain with bottle filler and dog bowl, and a double electric barbecue.
The upgrades at Windaroo’s KJ Asling Reserve include new play equipment, a rubbish bin, a shelter, drinking fountain, re-laid footpath and a new park name sign installed.
Tully Memorial Park at North Maclean has had three new illuminated flood markers erected alongside six existing historic markers.
Mabel Park at Slacks Creek received a new play tower, a junior bike skills track, a fitness station, seating and shelters.
And the Eagleby Wetlands in River Hills Road has a new nature play area, which was designed to reflect the concept of the Latham’s Snipe, a bird that uses Eagleby Wetlands as a nesting ground.
It features an exploration tunnel, a log balance, a sandpit, giant chimes, rope-climbing equipment, and decorative bird elements.
Mayor Darren Power said it was “money well-spent” to upgrade park facilities across Logan.
“Our community has told us how important parks are in their local areas and these upgrades, and other works planned, will ensure these open spaces continue to be well-used, innovative and engaging,” Cr Power said.
