A high-octane future is on the horizon for young people in Rathmines and surrounding suburbs, with work underway on a revolutionary youth hub and playground upgrade.
With a brand-new pump track, skate park, multi-court, playground, exercise stations and amenities in the pipeline for the lakeside location, the project will deliver on Council’s vision outlined in its 2020 master plan.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said she hoped to see the space replicate the success of the city’s first pump track in Redhead with a multi-faceted precinct on the western side of the lake.
“The Redhead Pump track has shown there’s strong demand for this type of facility in Lake Macquarie, so it’s exciting to be able to deliver a youth hub in Rathmines that I’m sure will be equally well received and utilised,” she said.
“Having a pump track, skate park and other outdoor recreation opportunities packed into one space will be a real drawcard for young people in our city and beyond.”
The playground upgrade will include a learn to ride area to help younger riders hone their skills before taking on the pump track circuit.
The inclusion of the multi-court – a quarter size tennis court accommodating a range of hard surface sports – was identified as a key component of the design throughout the community engagement process.
Seating and sheltered areas, accessible toilets and connecting pathways are also included in the design.
The project is funded by the NSW Government through the Everyone Can Play and Resources for Regions grant programs, as well as development contributions.
Work on the playground upgrade began on 5 February, with the youth hub to follow later this year.
