The Spencer community will be soon enjoying an upgraded playspace in Spencer Waterfront precinct thanks to a $50,000 grant from the Australian Government’s Investing in our Communities (IiOC) grant and $45,000 from Central Coast Council.

Central Coast Council Director of Community and Recreation Services Mel Smith said the current playground currently features only a swing set and picnic table.

“With the upgrade, the community will be able to enjoy play equipment including a swing set, climbing and slide unit, rocker, rubber softfall and picnic table.

"Installation of the equipment will commence the end of June or early July with the aim for the works to be completed in late July (weather permitting)," Ms Smith said.

Local resident, Community Liaison Officer and co-founder of the community group River Cares, Robyn Downham, said it is fantastic that the new playground will offer multiple activities for a range of ages and abilities as well as attracting, connecting and helping children to play and socialise. 

“The upgrade of the Spencer playground will help to promote community connectivity and will help to bring families, visitors and tourists to our beautiful shores. 

“River Cares have been campaigning for an improved playground since the Spencer Public Toilets were completed in January 2023 and so we thank both the Australian Government and Council for now making this happen,” Ms Downham said.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said that the upgrade is part of Council’s overall strategy to see enhanced playspaces across the Central Coast. 

“I am delighted to see the existing Spencer waterfront playspace receive a much needed upgrade. 

“This is one of over 260 public playspaces in parks, reserves, holiday/caravan parks and community centres. As the Central Coast community grows, it is important that Council continues to provide young families and children with safe environments to engage in play-based learning,” Mr Hart said.

“We thank the Australian Government for their support of this project.”

The Member for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid said he is pleased to see the Australian Government partner with Central Coast Council to undertake an upgrade of the playground at Spencer.

“This upgrade will update equipment and bring the playspace up to standard.

“I thank the community of Spencer and surrounding communities for their advocacy," Dr Reid said.

Council reminds visitors to the area that there will be no access to the playspace while the installation of the new equipment and associated construction is underway.

ENDS