Where the new Shell Cove foreshore park will be located. Photo: Shellharbour City Council.
For the first time, Shell Cove families are being invited to help shape a dedicated playground at the marina foreshore, with two ocean-inspired concept designs now open for community feedback.
Set beside the popular Shellharbour Marina kids beach, the proposed play space aims to balance imaginative, inclusive play with the open green feel locals value — and council wants residents to have their say before the final design is chosen.
Delivered by Frasers Property Australia as part of the Shell Cove partnership, Shellharbour City Council will lead the community engagement to ensure the final playground design reflects local ideas and priorities.
One of the Shell Cove foreshore park proposed design options, called kelp forest. Image: Supplied.
Based on community green-space feedback in October 2024, council decided against moving forward with a built facility on the land and has instead prioritised preserving green, open space, while creating a family friendly play area close to the kids beach.
To this point, the man-made dedicated kids beach has been the only provided entertainment option in the vicinity for younger children.
The only other equipment in the area is outdoor gym equipment at Breakwater Park towards the Southern Breakwater.
Council has said the preferred location for the park is beside the kids beach due to being a spot families already use and creating a stronger link between play and the water.
Another of the Shell Cove foreshore park proposed design options, called Weedy Seadragon. Image: Supplied.
As part of the design, the new playground will feature a mix of active, imaginative and inclusive play opportunities for children of all ages, along with seating, shade and picnic areas for families.
Shellharbour City Council Mayor Chris Homer said residents were invited to explore the two design themes and offer their feedback as to which was best suited to the area.
Concept one, called The Kelp Forest, was inspired by the nearby ocean, where children could climb, slide, balance and explore among sea-inspired sculptures, reefs and tidal pools.
Concept two, called The Weedy Seadragon, was inspired by the nearby Bushrangers Bay Aquatic Reserve and brings the theme of the Shell Cove sculptures into play.
“Playgrounds aren’t just for kids, they’re the heart of our community, where families relax, neighbours meet and everyone gets to enjoy our open spaces,” Cr Homer said.
“We’re excited to see what the community thinks about these designs and can’t wait to create a space where imagination and fun thrive.”
Feedback is being sought throughout February, with community members able to view the playground concepts and provide their input through council’s Let’s Chat platform.
There will also be on-site signage at the foreshore with QR codes linking directly to the engagement page.
