The rollout of Brisbane’s Sun Safe Suburban Playgrounds program is currently underway at Ferny Grove Picnic Ground Park and other parks around the city.
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The shade upgrades commenced in March 2023 and will include installing poles and frames, measuring and installing shade sails, and intermittent temporary closures of the playground equipment.
Works for the shade sails at Ferny Grove Picnic Ground Park are scheduled from April to May 2023.
The installation process itself will take between three to five weeks depending on the size and site conditions of each playground.
In light of the construction activities involved in the shade upgrades, the council has reminded residents to anticipate possible disruptions. The construction work will generally take place between 6:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m, Monday to Saturday.
About the Sun Safe Suburban Playgrounds program
The $10-million Sun Safe Suburban Playgrounds program is a key initiative of Brisbane’s 2022-23 Council Budget.
Over the next three years, Brisbane City Council will provide shade to all existing playgrounds through the program, utilising locally-sourced shade sails and mature trees.
Although many of Brisbane’s playgrounds already have shade cover, BCC has said it remains committed to making the completion of the remaining playgrounds a priority.
“As mums, dads, grandparents and carers know all too well, Brisbane playgrounds without shade can be no-go zones during the warmer months of the year,” said Cr Adrian Schrinner.
Cr Schrinner highlighted the worrying fact that Queensland has the highest rate of skin cancer in the country, with more than 3,600 cases of melanoma diagnosed each year. He stressed that practising sun safety is crucial for everyone’s wellbeing, regardless of age.
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Council anticipates that approximately 150 current playgrounds will receive shade upgrades through this program.
Published 17-April-2023