It’s often forgotten that Campbelltown has not one but two great parks in the town centre.
Koshigaya Park, located opposite Campbelltown Catholic Club, is the one that readily comes to mind.
But barely 100 metres away there is another excellent green space in the heart of the town: Marsden Park.
It’s not as old as Koshigaya Park and does not host as many public events, but Marsden Park is an excellent open space.
It is surrounded on the western side by Park Central, a residential area that is more like inner city Paddington than what people usually think Campbelltown looks like.
On the eastern side are Campbelltown Private Hospital and Campbelltown Hospital, with commercial high rise buildings in Hyde Parade and other parts of Park Central.
It’s true that Marsden Park has not been without some problems since it was opened to the public around 20 years ago.
But by and large it was a pioneering open space, boasting good quality exercise equipment as well as two ponds, walking paths and plenty of trees for shade.
Now it seems the time has come to give Marsden Park a makeover.
Residents are being invited to have their say on a Campbelltown Council draft concept plan to revamp Marsden Park.
The plan was developed following initial feedback from park users last year and proposes a number of significant upgrades and improvements to the current play equipment and amenities.
“Marsden Park is among Campbelltown’s most popular playgrounds and sits in the heart of a busy residential, commercial and health precinct,” says Mayor George Greiss.
“The concept plan outlines a vision for the site which will make it more accessible and provide modern play equipment that meets the needs of a growing area,” Cr Greiss said.
Proposed upgrades include improved play equipment including climbing ropes, a large basket swing, flying fox, trampolines, toddlers swing set, see saw and slide.
Shade tree plantings, shade sails and seating areas, new picnic shelters, seating and barbecue areas and a water play area are included in the draft plans.
Others include a nature play area with balance beams and steppers, safety fencing and pedestrian entry points and new accessible entry pathways.
Residents have until Tuesday, January 31 to leave their feedback at overtoyou.campbelltown.nsw.gov.au
Can we finish the Billabong, before we start on anything new
Just wondering how all of this will affect the wildlife. There is a pocket of Bell birds at the end of the park. As long as the park is not encroached on by any other development
Marsden Park is/ could be a wonderful recreational park area for residents, patients, staff and visitors to /from the Private Hospital and specialists, but unfortunately the park needs a thorough overhaul and upgrade followed by ongoing maintenance. At the moment it’s a disgrace and embarrassment for Campbelltown.