The park upgrade includes revamped play and recreation spaces, with the inclusion of a new pump track, shared path and oval upgrades with AFL and soccer goals.
Mayor Glenn Docherty has welcomed Council’s completion of the project, which was made possible with a $400,000 grant from the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing, following a 2022 State Government election commitment.
“Council is delighted to share this upgraded space with our community,” the Mayor said. “We know that Dwight Reserve North is popular with locals and this upgrade will only build on that popularity.”
Input from the community through Council’s engagement process guided the design of the upgrade, which includes a big attraction for bike riders.
“The centrepiece of the upgrade is a new pump track – one of the biggest in the northern suburbs,” said Mayor Docherty.
“It will make the park a real drawcard for push bike riders keen to test their prowess on the track’s turns and bumps.”
In addition to the pump track, the upgrade includes improved accessibility, such as a wheelchair DDA accessible carousel, along with a new multi-play set, basket swing, double swing, and monkey bars.
The space also includes new soft-fall surfaces, amenity refurbishments and a new pathway connecting the reserve’s facilities.
Lee Odenwalder, Member for Elizabeth, played a key role in securing funding for the upgrade.
“I grew up playing at Dwight Reserve North before school, and, like many families, we spent almost every morning there during the first few months of COVID,” Mr Odenwalder said.
“Many constituents have since asked me about the possibility of upgrading the reserve, so that it can be enjoyed by more families and sports groups.
“At the last State Election I was pleased to be able secure $400,000 from the State Government for the partial upgrade of Dwight Reserve North. This investment has delivered an improved playground and a brand new pump track.”
Community feedback also suggested the desire for a suite of future improvement works, including a new BBQ area, nature play space, toilets and improved parking.
Mayor Glenn Docherty said that the upgrade is the first stage of work intended for the site.
“Council has committed to further upgrades to Dwight Reserve North by endorsing funding for the renewal of existing play equipment as part of its 2024/25 budget,” the Mayor said.
“We also look forward to working with the State Government to secure more funding for future upgrades to the reserve, which we know will be welcomed by our community.”
“Now that this $400,000 election commitment has delivered many of these improvements, I know that local residents will be looking forward to the City of Playford completing further stages in the near future,” said Mr Odenwalder.
