Playground maintenance
Council regularly inspects playgrounds to make sure they remain safe, functional and enjoyable for the community. Inspections are carried out by both external specialists and Council officers. They look at general wear, condition and how equipment has aged over time. Playground safety is our priority and is managed using a risk-based approach.
A number of playgrounds have been identified as requiring maintenance. Some play equipment has reached the end of its usable life and will now be closely managed to reduce risk and maintain safe access.
Playgrounds requiring maintenance
- Burgoyne Reserve
- Logan Reserve
- Cherry Lake
- Hatt Reserve
- Langshaws Reserve
- Brooklyn Reserve
- Ailsa Reserve
Next steps
Many of the affected playgrounds contain older equipment that has worn over time. This can include timber rot, rust and loose or damaged parts. In some cases, individual items are no longer suitable to be repaired and may need to be removed or replaced.
Burgoyne Reserve
Removal works of the old play space has already been completed at Burgoyne Reserve. A like-for-like replacement playground has been ordered with an expected installation start date of Monday 18 May 2026 and expected completion date of Friday 5 June 2026.
Other playgrounds
For the other sites, scoping, design, quoting and scheduling are still underway, and this webpage will be updated as further information comes to hand. Council is taking a staged and practical approach. Actions may include:
- making temporary safety improvements
- removing or restricting access to individual items that are no longer safe to use
- repairing selected equipment
- planning future replacements or upgrades as part of existing programs and budgets
- considering nearby playgrounds and other play opportunities.
Keeping the community informed
Council understands playgrounds are important places for families and children. We will update this page where there are significant changes to access or equipment. If you notice damage or have safety concerns, please report it to Council’s customer request channels so it can be inspected.
Common questions and answers
Why was this not found earlier?
Playgrounds are inspected every six months by Council’s accredited playground officer, audited annually by an external specialist, and checked weekly as part of routine maintenance. However, some wear occurs gradually and can worsen between inspections. Recent reviews found that several sites had deteriorated faster than expected.
Are the playgrounds unsafe to use?
The playgrounds listed (apart from Burgoyne Reserve) do not require emergency intervention. Where there is a higher risk, Council will take steps to keep users safe, such as removing equipment (as at Burgoyne Reserve) or limiting access.
Why is equipment being removed instead of fixed?
Some equipment is too old or damaged to be repaired safely. In these cases, removal is the safest option until longer term decisions are made.
Will the playground be closed?
In most cases, only specific items may be removed or restricted. Full closures are generally avoided unless needed for safety.
When will the playground be upgraded or replaced?
Council is assessing repair and replacement options across all affected sites. Any future full upgrades will be considered through normal planning and budgeting processes.
Can the community have a say?
Community feedback is valued. Any future full upgrade projects that require consultation will follow Council’s usual engagement processes.
Where can I get more information?
Information will be updated on the Council website. You can also contact Council through customer service if you have questions or concerns.