AT WORK COUNCIL SEEKS EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST TO ESTABLISH A PERMANENT INDOOR PLAYGROUND

Orange City Council is calling for expressions of interest to establish and operate a permanent indoor playground in Orange.

Council wants to hear from parties interested in providing an indoor playground primarily for children aged up to 13 years, for a minimum of six years. Respondents may also wish to include a secondary play area for children aged 13 to 16.

Orange Mayor Jason Hamling said the facility should meet the needs of our growing city and flourishing visitor economy.

“The temporary playground that was set up at the Orange Indoor Tennis Club last winter was very popular with children and carers, especially at the coldest time of the year when a warm, dry location was the preferred option,” Cr Hamling said.

“Now, Council is looking for something more permanent, with imaginative and inspiring elements, which can be operated all year round and provides a safe, inclusive environment for children, families and carers to meet and socialise.”

Council is willing to work with prospective operators and to provide support for the establishment and operation of the facility.

The design of the play space should include a broad range of accessible elements that offer physical, social and solo play, sensory and cognitive activities and free space, taking into consideration the NSW Department of Planning’s ‘Everyone Can Play’ guidelines.

Ideally the playground would include ancillary features such as café facilities, tables and seating for adults, and the ability to conduct birthday parties. Expressions of interest will close at 5pm on Friday 30 June. For information contact Orange City Council’s Community, Recreational and Cultural Services Director Scott Maunder on 0418 919 120 or email smaunder@orange.nsw.gov.au.