New shade sails for local playgrounds

Mayor Byrne said he last year asked for a review of all Council playgrounds, and a prioritisation of the need for shade sails in local parks and recreation areas. 

“The funding to systematically retrofit all of our playgrounds had been allocated under the former Leichhardt Council,” said Mayor Byrne. 

“That was put on hold during the amalgamation and then sidelined by new Council’s Administrator. 

“But the program is back on track and I’m very happy Council has agreed to commit $500,000 to install shade sails in parks where they are needed the most,” he said. 

“Many playgrounds sit empty through summer because the equipment is too hot for kids to use. Parents tell me all the time that a lack of shade at playgrounds poses a safety problem for their children. 

“We need to ensure they are protected from our harsh sun and can enjoy using our playgrounds all year round,” he said. 

Under the program of work shade sails will be installed at the following playgrounds: 

• Campbell Street, Balmain 
• College Street, Balmain 
• J.F. Laxton Reserve, Union Street, Dulwich Hill 
• Marr Reserve, Cary Street, Leichhardt 
• Nestor Park, Hearn Street, Leichhardt 
• O’Connor Reserve, Rozelle 
• Pine Square, Leichhardt 
• William Street, Ashfield 

Shade sails have already been retrofitted in the following parks this year:

• 36th Battalion Park, Leichhardt 
• Gladstone Park, Balmain 
• Goodsir Street Park, Rozelle 
• Trevor Street Playground, Lilyfield 
• William Stuart Playground Whites Creek Valley Park, Lilyfield 
• Sydenham Green 

Replacement shade sails have also been installed at Mort Bay Park Playground in Birchgrove and over-bleacher seating shade at Marrickville Park. 

At last night’s Council Meeting, it was resolved to further consider eight other locations throughout the inner west, as part of the shade sails program review.