It’s time for playgrounds

CHILDREN in Casey have more than 265 playgrounds to choose from, and that number is set to increase.
In council’s 2011-12 Budget, $270,000 is allocated towards playground upgrades and a further $210,000 will be spent on playground renewals.
City of Casey Mayor Shar Balmes said that a key outcome of the playground strategy adopted last year was a focus on enhancing playgrounds throughout the municipality to provide improved accessibility, diversity and engaging play spaces.
“Through the strategy, council aims to provide a complimentary range of play spaces to ensure the entire community has access to a variety of physical, adventurous, creative, explorative and social play opportunities,” Cr Balmes said.
“It is widely acknowledged that play provides important social, developmental and lifestyle benefits and council is a key provider of public play opportunities through the development of open space and playgrounds.
“I encourage families to visit one of the many playgrounds located throughout the municipality to enjoy some quality leisure time in the great outdoors!”