A new major playground for Murrumbateman
Since the late 1990s the Murrumbateman community has wanted a major playground to be established. A Category/Level 2 neighbourhood park was built on Church land in Hercules St in 2009 being suitable only for young children. Council has developed masterplans and strategies for Murrumbateman but there has been slow progression. Lobbying by MCA and community members has consistently identified the need for a more centralised Category/Level 1 playground that is suitable for older children and youth.
The Murrumbateman Community has been fortunate to receive a promise of $750K as an election promise in 2022 from the current government – it was championed by a local resident who is now a Yass Valley Councillor – Kristen Butler. The funding is for all-abilities playground with play and fitness equipment, where everyone can have a go. Clr Butler also ensured that Yass Council’s 2022/26 Delivery Program included the construction of a Level 1 playground on Council managed land in Murrumbateman with delivery timing expected to be in 2023/24. Council is also holding some funds in reserve for a playground.
The MCA Working Group on Recreational Facilities has bought together community and sporting groups to focus upon what wider recreation facilities, including a major playground, are needed for Murrumbateman. To help the work of Council to determine a location for a Level 1 playground, the WG did a cost-benefit analysis of potential sites. More work is to be done to ensure proper community consultation for the selection of a location and a design.
A month long survey recently closed (2 April 2023) with 379 community responses. Analysis of the results is currently being done. THANK YOU ALL FOR PARTICIPATING
For more information email recreationfacilities@murrumbateman.org.au