30 Nov 2017

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A final landscape plan has been drawn up for a popular Sumner park and playground following community feedback.

Scarborough Park's playground is due for an upgrade because the equipment is nearing the end of its life.

A mouse wheel is planned for Scarborough Park playground.

A mouse wheel planned for Scarborough Park would be a first for a Christchurch City Council playground.

Christchurch City Council received 125 submissions from the local community about a draft concept plan for the park’s renewal and options for new play equipment.

Of these, 91 supported the plan, 28 supported it but raised some concerns, and five did not support it. One person didn’t say whether or not they supported the plan.

A final landscape plan has been put together by Council staff following the public consultation process and it will be considered by the Linwood-Central-Heathcote Community Board on Monday 4 December.

Christchurch City Council Acting Head of Parks Brent Smith said community input was very important. “The feedback that we’ve had has been really constructive and it’s helped staff come up with a plan for a revitalised park that will challenge, entertain and inspire visitors and locals in the years to come.”

Changes made to the original plan, based on the community responses and further technical advice include:

• Making the colour scheme for the play equipment in colours that match the Scarborough paddling pool (timber with green, blue, yellow and red), a choice that was supported by 51 per cent of submitters.

• A new pedestrian gate will be installed at the entrance next to the wastewater pump station.

• Plant beds around the play areas will be extended and five new trees will be added for shade and play opportunities.

• Two picnic tables will be moved to a different location to create a new picnic area to the north of the park near the cafe.

• A Bigbelly solar-powered rubbish bin will be added before peak summer season.

• The nature play area has been changed to accommodate the existing rocking horse, which will be refurbished and installed as a static item.

• A rock with a plaque will recognise a donation to the playground upgrade.

New play equipment will include a mouse wheel, which would be the first in a Christchurch City Council park, an eagles lair climbing net, a dancing snake rope swing, a climbing tower with slides, a triple swing set, a rocking horse, spring toys, a carousel and nature play items.

The plan also provides for a new 1.2 metre wide sealed scooter path and rubberised safety surfacing to make the playground more accessible.

Council staff are recommending the Community Board approve the proposed plan and the removal of a macrocarpa tree, which is in poor condition and a potential health and safety risk, as part of the park’s upgrade.

If the proposal is approved, construction of the new playground is expected to begin in April next year.