Shade sails to provide cool, year-round fun for all

Wednesday, 6 January 2021

The Penrith community is set to benefit from the roll out of new shade sails at several local parks in time for summer.

The playspaces will become cooler and provide protection from the sun, giving children of all ages more time playing and parents peace of mind they are shielded from the sun’s UV rays. 

The first 15 of 90 playspaces identified for improved shade facilities are now decked out with contemporary shade materials, supported by robust steel frames.

Installed in a mix of colours, the modern shades meet Australian Standards, provide specified UV block out ratings between 97-99%, minimise heat and allow appropriate airflow.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown OAM said not only do the shade sails form a vital part of Council’s Cooling the City strategy and better our playspaces, they give families the chance to spend hours frolicking and having fun close to home.

“Council prides itself on providing an array of recreational areas for residents to enjoy while encouraging active, outdoor lifestyles,” Cr McKeown said.

“However, we live in one of the state’s hottest regions and see scorching summer days – temperatures quickly reach and exceed 40ºC as we have seen recently.

“For this reason, it is important we make it easier for people to get out of their homes rather than feel the need to stay inside.

“I am thrilled to see these shade sails popping up around Penrith and welcome the upgrades, which promote year-round fun at playgrounds. This will be complemented by extensive tree planting as we invest millions of dollars in keeping our City cool.”

Forming Stage One, the first 15 completed parks are scattered across Penrith, South Penrith, Castlereagh, Jordan Springs, Cambridge Park, Emu Plains, Leonay and Cranebrook.

Stage Two installation is underway with the community commenting excitedly on the frames being installed at their local parks. St Marys, Colyton, Mt Vernon, Kingswood, Regentville, Wallacia and Glenmore

Park are set to enjoy shaded play prior to Christmas.

Visit penrith.city/playspace-upgrades for more information.

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Wednesday, 6 January 2021.