Stockland Shellharbour has started construction on a new inclusive playground set to open within weeks.
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The design is inspired by Shellharbour's coastal location and it will be located on ground level of the shopping centre near Target.
Centre manager Daniel Buchanan said it is being built in collaboration with Playground Centre and Variety - the Children's Charity and features and innovative design to allow children of all abilities to play together, including those with physical disabilities, vision, hearing and mobility impairments, or spectrum disorders such as autism.
Mr Buchanan said it will help remove the barriers experienced by children living with disabilities, so they can have the same access and opportunities that others enjoy.
"We hope this new playground will become a favourite destination for our littlest customers and the community more widely, where all children feel comfortable letting their imaginations run wild and just enjoy playing," he said.
"We see ourselves as a town centre designed for the community, and will continue to evaluate ways in which we can create more curated experiences and add value and convenience to customers' visits."
Playground Centre's NSW business development manager Darren Hight said inclusive playgrounds like the one being built at Stockland Shellharbour offer overwhelmingly positive and wide-ranging benefits for individuals, families and communities.
"A truly accessible, inclusive playground makes interactive, friendly play more likely, enriching the play experience for everyone and fostering a stronger appreciation of diversity and inclusion," he said.
"We are proud to work with forward-thinking developers like Stockland who recognize that everyone should be able to experience the pure joy and benefits of play, regardless of their age or ability. It's all about making sure everyone feels welcome to stay and play with a multitude of play options on offer."
The new playground features a fishing boat, pirate ship and RRS Sir David Attenborough research vessel, where children are encouraged to interact, role play and play.
Variety's inclusive play manager Kim Becherand said working with Stockland Shellharbour to deliver the project provides an opportunity to create a truly inclusive playspace in the heart of Shellharbour that will engage all children and their families and carers in play.
"At Variety we believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to play. This new playspace will push the boundaries of what an inclusive playspace in a shopping centre can be," she said.
"Working with the project team we'll create a space where everyone is included, valued and feels they belong.
"The Stockland Shellharbour playspace continues Variety's ongoing partnership with Stockland. We love working together and striving for excellence in design as we create inclusive playspaces for Stockland communities throughout Australia."
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Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
