BYRON SHIRE Deputy Mayor, Paul Spooner, announced today that a Labor-led Byron Shire Council would prioritise the construction or refit of Byron Shire playgrounds in the townships of Byron Bay, Suffolk Park, Bangalow, Mullumbimby, Ocean Shores and Brunswick Heads.
He said this is to ensure Byron Shire residents of all ages and accessibility have world class play spaces.
“We live in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Our natural geography is incredible but our parks and playgrounds are dull, tired and under-utilised,” Cr Spooner said.
“I’ve been told by parents that they are travelling to Ballina and Tweed Shires to access play facilities in those areas because our playgrounds are dirty and not up to scratch.”
Mullumbimby parent Samaya Askill says Paul Spooner is the only Mayoral candidate who is focused on improving local infrastructure for the families of the Byron Shire.
“The playgrounds across the shire desperately need to be upgraded and expanded.
“It’s fantastic that Paul Spooner is making a stand to commit to upgrading and improving play grounds for families across the shire and make them more interesting, engaging play spaces that are accessible to all, including children with disabilities.”
According to Bangalow mother Monika Wheeler, playing outdoors supports a child’s brain development, motor-skills and social capabilities.
“Playgrounds get people moving and reduce barriers to social interaction,” Ms Wheeler said.
Cr. Spooner says, “If elected Mayor one of my first priorities would be to create fun and creative playgrounds in the main townships of the Shire.”
Byron Bay’s adopted Master Plan identified that Byron’s playgrounds are in need of repair. The Plan suggests repurposing Denning Park (Byron Foreshore) and Sandhills Community Hub as integrated community spaces with modern playgrounds and spaces for young people.
“Labor doesn’t just have good ideas – we make things happen. My team includes parents with small children so we understand the need for this to be addressed in the Shire.”
“Labor supports creating interactive and creative play spaces for people of all ages and accessibilities. We need equipment that is accessible for kids with disabilities, wet weather spaces for when the rains hit, water play facilities and to promote the use of natural and recycled park furniture to compliment Byron Shire’s character.”
“There are dozens of terrific international and domestic examples of innovative public spaces that support children and adults exploring and enjoying time together.”
“It’s time we got the basics right and made our parks and playgrounds as beautiful and fun as the environment in which they are located.”