Whyalla's Splash + Play Plaza moves closer to reality
Whyalla’s new Splash and Play Plaza is another step closer, with final construction designs going out to tender soon!
These designs were finalised in consultation with the local community — particularly parents and families — to gain their input and ensure they helped shape the final outcome.
The design remains largely true to the original concept supported by the community, with some added tweaks to better suit the needs of local families. The architects worked to make the Splash and Play Plaza ‘uniquely Whyalla’, with the framework replicating elements from the steelworks to tie into the city’s heritage and identity.
Whyalla City Council’s Acting Director of City Growth, Jodie Perone, said the project is a strong example of council and the community working hand-in-hand.
“It’s fantastic that what’s important to local families has been incorporated into the design, while still celebrating Whyalla’s identity and maintaining most elements from the original design,” Ms Perone said.
“The community has been waiting a long time for a play space like this, so we’re thrilled to be delivering such an exciting project that will help activate our stunning foreshore and hopefully attract new families to our city.”
Dani Bentley from the community group added, “it was great to be part of the planning and to see our ideas included in the final design. We can’t wait for the plaza to be completed and to see our children and other local families enjoying such an exciting play space.”
Some of the key features include:
- Numerous water-play features, such as a water curtain, sprays and water bucket
- Outdoor adventure play (with junior, senior and accessible elements)
- The designers have aimed to make it ‘uniquely Whyalla’, with the adventure play space framework replicating various structural elements of the Whyalla Steelworks
- Wave lawn
- Scooter track
- Shelter and seating
The project will be part of other foreshore developments to be delivered in stages, including a new Foreshore Centre Building (incorporating Surf Life Saving / café / kiosk / community group) and other plaza design elements. Council will continue to work closely with community groups to shape these later stages.
A tender for construction will be released in September, providing opportunities for local contractors to be involved in bringing this project to life.
This project is possible thanks to the Albanese Government’s Growing Regions Program.
