Students present concept plan to Council

Tuesday, 25 August 2015

Students from Bennett Road Public School and Colyton High School Trade School have presented their concept plan to Council for the renewal of Barr and Bass Reserve in Colyton.

Twenty five students participated in the 2015 Penrith Mayoral Challenge working in small groups to plan for a new playground in their neighbourhood.

Students have discussed their vision for the park with Council staff in three workshops where they have planned how they could improve the space for their local community.

Penrith Mayor Ross Fowler OAM said he was impressed with the level of detail the students had put into their proposal to Council.

"The presentation to Council was very comprehensive," Cr Fowler said.

"The students have put a lot of thought into what they would like their community to enjoy in this space and we're excited to bring it to life."

Part of the redesign of the park was consulting with the community to form priorities on what could be delivered within budget. The students carried out surveys and drew on community feedback to identify five key priorities for the design - that the park be accessible, family friendly, safe, include spaces to play and include places to rest.  

"The design process has allowed these young leaders from Colyton to learn about place making, budgeting and the importance of collaborative decision making.

"The resulting design is a direct reflection of their vision and something they should be very proud of. We are all very proud of their contribution."

In addition to the concept plan being endorsed at the meeting, Council voted additional funds from East Ward for the installation of a BBQ in the reserve. Council's Parks Department will start construction of the park with work expected to be completed in early 2016.

Photo caption: Penrith Mayor Ross Folwer OAM (right) is joined by Bennett Road Public School Principal Matthew Plummer (left) and students from Bennett Road Public School and Colyton High School Trade School.

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Tuesday, 25 August 2015.