Townsville City Council has officially opened a new playground at Riverside Green District Park in Douglas, aimed specifically at toddlers and younger children. This development is part of the larger Riverside Green Open Space Renewal Project, which has introduced various improvements to enhance the community’s recreational experience.
The recent upgrades include new play equipment tailored for younger children, along with picnic tables, shade structures, and enhanced landscaping throughout the park. Additionally, the main dog off-leash area has also been fitted with new shade structures, promoting comfort for both residents and their pets.
Ongoing Improvements and Community Impact
This latest completion follows the successful rollout of Stage 1 late last year, which featured a playground designed for older children, complete with slides, swings, and a climbing obstacle course. That stage also saw the addition of new barbecue facilities, picnic areas, drainage enhancements, and the relocation of the small dog off-leash zone.
Divisional Councillor Suzy Batkovic highlighted the enthusiastic response from the community since the first stage opened. “I’ve had excellent feedback from residents since the first stage opened, and it’s been fantastic to see the park so well-used,” Cr Batkovic stated. “The older kids have really embraced the new equipment, and now our littlest residents have a dedicated space to explore and enjoy as well.”
With the upgrades, Riverside Green now caters to a broader age range, making it more accessible for families. “This upgrade means Riverside Green now caters to a wider range of ages, making it easier for families to enjoy the park together. And with the dog park right alongside, even the four-legged family members are included,” Batkovic added.
Future Enhancements and Community Commitment
In an exciting announcement, Cr Batkovic reported that the State Government has allocated funding for a toilet facility at Riverside Green, which is set to be installed in the New Year. This addition will allow families to stay longer and enjoy the park’s offerings.
The council’s investment for the renewal of the playground and park area at Riverside Green totals $1,795,000. Cr Batkovic emphasized the council’s commitment to enhancing public spaces, stating, “Council is committed to activating public spaces and encouraging residents to get outside, be active and enjoy our city. The completed upgrades at Riverside Green add another high-quality, family-friendly space to our community.”
These developments reflect the Townsville City Council’s ongoing efforts to foster community engagement and improve recreational facilities, ensuring that Riverside Green remains a valuable asset for local families and their pets.
