Local families are in for a treat with Manningham Council set to improve one of the community’s most well-loved playgrounds at Ruffey Lake Park.

The Victoria Street Playground will be closed for construction between mid-March and mid-2024 and when it reopens, families will discover an improved and expanded adventure playground.

Manningham Mayor, Councillor Carli Lange, said Council was planning a reopening event to celebrate the upgrade.

“I know you will all be as excited to get down to the opening of the new and improved Victoria Street Playground, as I am.

“A day out here is going to be fun for everyone with a giant basket swing, a new lookout tower and slide, new rope balance circuit, all-abilities spinner and expanded sand and water play area.

“We’re also installing additional seats and plants to compliment the works and ensure Victoria Street Playground at Ruffey Lake continues to be a destination playspace for families and children of all ages,” Cr Lange said.

While the Victoria Street playground is closed for construction, nearby toilets, picnic shelters and the flying fox will remain open. Nearby playgrounds within Ruffey Lake Park will also remain open - the Boulevard playspace, the Church Road North playspace. For older kids looking for a challenge, there is the Ninja Warrior Course at the northern end of The Boulevarde off King Street.

If you are looking for alternative playgrounds with similar facilities to Victoria Street Playground, you can visit Wombat Bend and wongium wilam or discover the many other beautiful parks within Manningham.

Each tree in the playground was carefully reviewed by a team of independent Arborists. Regrettably, one of the yellow gums has significantly deteriorated and could in the future pose a risk of falling branches. The tree will be removed and replaced with additional trees, in and around the playground.

The playground construction works will generally occur between 7.00am and 5.00pm on weekdays. At times, traffic or pedestrians may be redirected to allow access to the construction site. Any detours will be clearly communicated and sign-posted.

“Victoria Street playground is such a great place to get together with family and friends. It’s a place that provides lots of happy memories and experiences,” Cr Lange said.

“I look forward to an improved playground and seeing the many smiles on the children’s faces as they explore the awesome towers and slides, discover the new sand play water features and try out the exciting range of swing options.”

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