Fencing four key playgrounds to improve safety has proven a hit in Shellharbour

Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters might have sung “don’t fence me in”, but it seems fencing around four of Shellharbour’s key playgrounds has sparked overwhelming support from parents and carers who deal with toddlers, those with sensory needs and even the odd “little runner”.

Shellharbour City Council has 88 playgrounds across the city that cater to varying needs and ages, with play equipment ranging from swings to zip-lines, slides and even ninja walls.

However, through community consultation, the one need families requested most was playgrounds that were fenced to ensure further safety of young children and those with sensory needs.

For the likes of Shellharbour resident and mother of two Sammi Temelkovski, having the safety of fencing was a huge plus.

“I think it is a great initiative to have park fences, as it is more inclusive for families who have concerns about children running off,” Sammi said.

“It makes it more of a safe, controlled environment for the children.”

Among the comments council received during its community feedback was from Luana who said: “Gated parks where parents and grandparents can relax as the children play”.

Meanwhile, Kayla said: “Fenced parks for children with not just special needs but also children who tend to explore more. This will eliminate the extra stress”.

While most Shellharbour playgrounds are unfenced, four key playgrounds were chosen to have new fencing added due to their proximity to waterways and busy roads.

They included Reddall Reserve ‘Pirate’ Playground at Reddall Pde, Lake Illawarra; Mood Park Playground at the corner of Tongarra Rd and Terry St, Albion Park; Central Park Playground at 81 The Boulevarde, Oak Flats; and Collins Reserve Playground at Glider Ave, Blackbutt.

Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said the newly improved playgrounds showed council’s commitment to serving the needs of its diverse community and the safety of all residents.

He said families with young children and those who had diverse sensory needs would benefit greatly from the four fenced playgrounds across the Shellharbour area.

“With the installation of fencing at four existing playgrounds across the region, council continues to show that when the community speaks, we listen,” Cr Homer said.

After council posted about the completed changes on social media, one commenter Tessa said, “Big thanks to Shellharbour City Council for putting fences around on some of our kids’ playgrounds! Makes such a difference knowing our little ones can’t run onto the road while playing.

“Really great for all parents, but extra special for families with kids who are runners like mine! Finally we can all relax a bit while watching our kids have fun! Well done, council. Great initiative!”

However, some parents are now requesting for the inclusion of shade over some of the parks.

One Facebook commenter praised the fencing, but asked, “Could you also make more shade over the playgrounds in general please. Without shade, it really reduces the sun safety and the amount of time that can be spent at the playground. I know a lot of budgeting would be involved but I’m sure it would be worth the investment”.

The additions mean residents can now enjoy fenced playgrounds across the entire Shellharbour City, at Lake Illawarra, Albion Park, Oak Flats, and at Blackbutt.

To learn about other playgrounds in the Shellharbour region, visit the Parks and Playgrounds section on Shellharbour City Council’s website.