Bridges Hill Park playground and access improvements

Bridges Hill Park and Convent Hill are significant open spaces with spectacular views across Cessnock to the Brokenback Ranges. However, access to the space was limited and Council identified several key areas where access and usability could be improved.

Council has completed footpath widening, construction of concrete pathways, stairway and handrail installation, wayfinding signage, a Yarning Circle, and sandstone retaining walls. Garden edging and turf have been installed, and drainage issues have been mitigated with terrace walls, rock-lined swales and native revegetation. Viewing platforms, seating, heritage and interpretation signage works are also a feature in the park.

These works are funded by the Federal Government's National Stronger Regions Fund and State Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund Round 1.

Council undertook extensive consultation with a number of key community based groups and service providers to prepare a concept design for the new playground. This adventure playground provides a creative and imaginative play space for people of all ages and abilities, ultimately encouraging greater engagement with the natural environment.

The design components include swings and climbing decks, an enclosed toddler play space, a nature play area with balance beams and timber logs, a children’s bike circuit and obstacle course, shade trees around the bike track, a basketball hoop, Yarning Circle and sensory bush tucker garden, fitness station, three large shade sails, and BBQ and picnic areas.

The playground is now completed and has been built over several stages. Stages one and two of the playground commenced in 2018 and works included the demolition of the existing playground, construction of the bike park, toddler's play area, BBQ facilities and the children's bicycle track.

A real highlight is the sky tower, a large slide that has to be seen to be believed! An amenities block has also been completed. Other work has included uppgrading the car park area, installing a sandstone wall along Yango Street, lookout works and improvements to pedestrian access.

This project is partly funded by:

• Federal Government's National Stronger Regions Fund
• Cessnock Wine Country Lions Club
• State Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund (Rounds 1 and 2)
• State Government’s Social Housing Community Improvement Fund
• State Government’s Resources for Regions