Council's ambitious plan for Avalon Park

A council plan to upgrade Avalon Park could eventually result in one of the best parks of its kind in the region, says parks and gardens asset planner Kelly Crandle.

The draft plan, on which the council is now seeking public comment, involves a host of improvements over the next decade aimed at making the park a premier regional drawcard.

Key features of the plan are:

• Extensive redevelopment of existing play equipment, including a wet play area, high climbing towers, the longest slide in the Hutt and triple trampolines

• A network of all-weather paths for walkers and cyclists, improved parking, vehicle and pedestrian access and more lighting

• New park furniture, including a pergola, park benches and picnic tables

• Landscaping and tree planting to provide wind protection and create intimate and distinctive spaces for active and passive recreational uses

• A combination of traditional gardens and open spaces for active play

• A new themed bridge to better link Fairway Drive with the new main playground

Kelly says the plan offers great possibilities for a range of residents.

“Different zones will allow, say, families and small groups to picnic peacefully while large groups play games or public events are held nearby. The whole idea is to provide for a greater variety of users and activities than is at present possible.

“In addition, the plan will meet the needs of those looking for more traditional gardens and those looking for a venue for active play, particularly young children.”

The council is offering some fun-filled inducements to get feedback on its plan. On Sunday, July 8 it will run a free family day at The Green, where there will be bouncy castles, balloon twisting, face painting, a magic show, hula hoop workshops and music. While the children are entertained, council officers will talk to parents and other visitors about their views on the proposal.

And on three other Sundays – July 15, 22 and 29 from 1pm till 3.30pm – council officers will run a sausage sizzle, with free hot drinks, in the park to further gauge public opinion.

The latest Long Term Plan has provision for $1.25 million to be spent upgrading playground equipment at the park. Extra money to fund the overall upgrade, estimated at up to $3 million, will still have to be found.