Why is Council looking at alternative uses for Prices Circuit Reserve?

    Council reviewed the feedback that was received on the Playground Concept Design at Prices Circuit Reserve, Woronora and acknowledged that there was a shift in responses compared to the feedback we received in 2024. Our community let us know that a playground may not be the right fit for this space.

    Council resolved at its meeting on 28 April 2025 to do further community consultation to gather feedback on removing the playground service at Prices Circuit Reserve and explore ideas for alternative uses.

    You can read more about Council's decision by viewing the report and minutes from the meeting on our website.

    What location is Council planning for at Prices Circuit Reserve?

    The exact location that Council is planning for is shown in the location map here.

    Why are activities restricted to the zone shown on the location map?

    With the survey results of the March 2024 consultation showing Location A receiving greater support, a further detailed Tree Assessment Report was commissioned to evaluate the condition of 17 trees along the waterfront and to determine the precise location within Location A.

    The assessment concluded that a playground should not be situated within 25 metres of a large tree near the car park, therefore, the renewed playground was restricted to a clearing in the tree canopy, near an existing picnic table. 

    Any passive recreation activities will also be located in this zone.

    What kind of feedback is Council looking for?

    Council is wanting to get community feedback on the preferred use of the reserve. Open space is for all community users so we want to hear how different parts of the community would like to use this reserve.

    How will Council address flooding concerns/other issues raised at the previous round of consultation?

    Council prioritises child safety in the design of all our public spaces and we carefully consider community feedback. All feedback received during consultation is thoroughly reviewed, and designs may be adjusted to reflect the community’s needs and concerns. 

    At Prices Circuit Reserve, consideration of the distance from the river and the inclusion of additional design elements to minimise direct connection between any facilities and the river will be reviewed as part of the design phase. 

    The final design will incorporate best-practice safety measures in line with industry standards and expert recommendations, ensuring a secure and enjoyable space for families.

    Why was a playground proposed in this reserve?

    The previous playground at Prices Circuit Reserve was damaged by tree branch fall, requiring its removal. The playground was due for renewal to replace the playground that was damaged. This provided an opportunity to review the suitability of a playground at this location. The trees in the area of the old playground are unsafe, so renewing the playground in this location was unsuitable. 

    Council’s service standards for local playgrounds include short-stay playgrounds which focus on play for a single age group (usually younger children) within 10 minutes walk from most homes.

    A community consultation was carried out in March 2024 asking the community which location was preferred. The majority of respondents preferred Location A, so Council proceeded with this option.

    Where are the closest playgrounds nearby?

    Other playgrounds close to Prices Circuit Reserve are:

    Burnum Burnum Sanctuary, Woronora: one of our 'Regional' Playgrounds is 860m walking distance from Prices Circuit Reserve

    Prince Edward Park, Woronora: one of our 'District' Playgrounds is 1,125m walking distance via the footbridge over Woronora River

    Akuna Avenue Reserve, Bangor: one of our 'Local' Playgrounds is close by however not walkable due to topography and road layout.

    Will trees be removed?

    No trees will be removed for proposed work. A detailed Tree Assessment Report recommended that removal of dead wood to be carried out on some trees within the area. Additionally, a proactive tree inspection program would be implemented if upgrades to the reserve go ahead.