New pathways, improved playground areas including an inclusive all-ages playground, outdoor fitness equipment, signage and outdoor art installations are set to be the critical elements of planned upgrades to Burrangong Creek.

Hilltops Council’s Lee Furness said the proposed work would be the beginning of more extensive revitalisation works that would be funded through future grant programs.

Mayor Brian Ingram said he hoped the works would continue to build on those improvements made by the council and community in past years and would focus on improving Burrangong Creek in four categories- Connectivity, Recreational, Environmental and Cultural.

 “This plan has been put together in consultation with a range of community members, but we are keen to ensure the entire community have their say,” he said. “I hope that this work is considered just the beginning of a continued revitalisation of Burrangong Creek as we seek to build this natural feature of Young to be an enjoyable and well-used place for locals and visitors alike.”

Georgina Josephine Foundation’s Emma Cockburn said the works should include a playground that children, of all ages and abilities, could enjoy in Arboretum Park.

”It would be wonderful to have an inclusive play space that caters for all ages and abilities, that families can enjoy, where even the elderly or those with special needs can enjoy using the equipment placed there,” she said. “The play space could involve many of the Early Childhood centres and schools in the area utilising the play space for excursions, as well as the general public enjoying this space at any time.

“For those with concerns about the Arboretum Park location, being near water, I believe the playground design usually includes full enclosure of the play space with appropriate fencing. Such a location would also allow for wheel-chair accessible vehicle parking as well.”