New Plans Developed for Callan Park Skate Park
Thursday 23 March 2017
A redesigned Callan Park skate park proposal catering to skaters of different abilities and ages is a step closer following the development of a new design in a new location.
Administrator Richard Pearson said the revised Enlocus design to be located beside the NSW Ambulance car park has been developed in close consultation with local skaters and the wider community.
“The new site location to the south of the originally proposed site takes into account previous design considerations including high visual surveillance, proximity to public transport and safety by design principles,” he said.
“Council’s new plans also include removal of the unsympathetic three houses to the north of the site that will provide more open space within the park and importantly improve the view corridor form Balmain Road to the significant Kirkbride precinct.”
The previous plan for a skate park on the western edge of the Balmain Rd sporting ground within Callan Park was rejected by the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) on heritage grounds.
Several rounds of revision have been completed on a redesign tweaking the layout and arrangement, whilst still including key skate functions from the previous designs and community consultation, whilst also being responsive to the new site.
Mr Pearson said the Office of Environment and Heritage has been fully briefed in developing the new design.
“Council is proposing to put the revised skate park design to the Heritage Council in May for review prior to funding and submitting its development application,” he said.
“This family friendly skate park will still meet all the needs of the local skating community and assist in activating Callan Park for community use.
“Importantly, this proposal will also address heritage concerns that held up approval of the previous site while also addressing long standing heritage issues concerning the removal of three intrusive buildings on the site.”
The previous design which was located adjacent to the Balmain Road Sporting Grounds had a total facility area of 1390m2 (this includes the 1800mm wide pedestrian path around the facility).
The new proposal is considerably smaller at 1060m2.