Construction to Commence This Year on Foreshore Park Waterplay Area

24 March 2025

An artist’s impression of the waterplay area, which is part of the inclusive Foreshore Park playground project.

Construction is expected to begin this year on Newcastle’s first purpose-built inclusive playspace and waterplay area at Foreshore Park, pending the awarding of a tender by councillors on Tuesday evening.

Designed in collaboration with the Touched by Olivia Foundation and developed over more than five years of community consultation, the regional-level playspace will be a flagship feature of the city’s Harbour Foreshore Masterplan.

The facility, developed in line with the NSW Government’s Everyone Can Play guidelines, aims to provide a fun and accessible experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.

Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull said the project would significantly enhance community wellbeing.

“Quality community spaces play a significant role in enhancing the lives of people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities,” Cr Pull said.

“When completed, this will be by far one of the best facilities in our city, and I am very proud that our city is in a position to deliver such a fantastic project.”

Councillor Declan Clausen, who has submitted multiple motions supporting the project during this council term, described the future playspace as a valuable addition for the community.

“City of Newcastle has been engaging with the community since 2020 to create a shared vision for the Foreshore Park precinct,” Cr Clausen said.

“We are committed to creating accessible and inclusive public spaces, ensuring high-quality playgrounds and park facilities are available to all Novocastrians.”

The playspace will be located at the western end of Foreshore Park and feature four themed zones: junior and toddler play, water play, nature-based exploration, and quiet areas. These will be connected by accessible paths, gardens, shade, seating, and open lawns.

Key features include a central whale-themed swing and picnic area reflecting local Worimi and Awabakal heritage, a waterplay space inspired by Newcastle’s maritime history, and a unique “nuts and bolts” tower representing the city’s industrial legacy. The tower will include ramps for accessibility to its first level.

Other highlights include an accessible slide, sandpit, carousel, sensory pathway, and charging points for wheelchairs and mobility devices. Navigation will be supported by a logical and inclusive path of travel throughout the space.

Justine Perkins, founder of the Touched by Olivia Foundation, praised the design and the city’s approach.

“This Livvi’s Place design is truly inclusive and intergenerational and has a wonderful connection to place,” Ms Perkins said.

“City of Newcastle has been a fantastic partner. They have been committed to really listening to the children, youth and community and ensuring co-creation from the start.”

Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk, Co-Chair of the City’s Access Inclusion Advisory Committee, said the project represents a major step forward in inclusivity.

“The playspace project is a wonderful example of collaboration,” Cr Adamczyk said. “Accessibility considerations have been incorporated into all aspects of the design.”

Amanda Robertson, a Newcastle mother and community representative on the committee, welcomed the project on a personal level.

“As a family, we struggle to find safe accessible spaces for our twins who have a disability to play, explore and connect with the community,” Ms Robertson said.

“Not only will this playspace provide a unique opportunity for our children, and other children with disabilities, to enjoy playing outside, it’s also a step towards creating a more inclusive community.”

The playspace will be supported by a fully accessible amenities building and kiosk, which is already under construction. This will include unisex ambulant toilets, a parent’s change room, and a Changing Places facility.

The project is supported by the NSW Government, Variety – the Children’s Charity, the Touched by Olivia Foundation, and the Newcastle Port Community Contribution Fund.