Kids help design new beachside playground

A concept design that incorporates ideas from local school children has been released for New Brighton’s planned new beachside playground.

An artist's impression of the new beachside playground planned for New Brighton.

The design was released today by Development Christchurch Ltd (DCL) who are now seeking public feedback on it.

DCL put the concept design together based on ideas put forward by local school children and other members of the community.

The concept plan provides for three distinctive play zones – a water-play and splash pad, dry play and toddler area.

Overwhelming feedback has seen the New Brighton whale included in the concept design.

DCL Chief Executive Rob Hall says the project has been driven by the community and it is important they have their say on the plans.

“This concept design incorporates all the feedback we’ve received so far and we now need to hear what people think. This is a real community project and it’s exciting to see work progressing,” he said.

Christchurch City Council has approved $8.03 million for the Beachside Playground, a contribution towards the New Brighton Surf Life Saving Club, and coastal protection work. Earlier this week, the Council also agreed to include a further $11.2 million in the budget for the development of the New Brighton hot pools alongside the playground.

“The release of the playground concept design, along with this week’s commitment to fund the hot pools, is great news for New Brighton. These projects are key to plans to revitalise the seaside suburb; however, they are still just one piece of the puzzle and DCL is working on other aspects of regenerating the village.” Mr Hall said.

You can view the plans online and provide feedback until July 23.

Paper copies will be available from the New Brighton Regeneration Hub, the New Brighton Library and the New Brighton Project office at 105 Brighton Mall from Friday, June 23 .

DCL will also be at the New Brighton Seaside Market over the next four weekends to talk to the community about the designs and gather feedback.