All-Abilities Playground, Added Amenities Coming to The Gap’s Walton Bridge Reserve

The Gap’s Walton Bridge Reserve is set to see a new all-abilities playground, more shade trees and additional facilities through the upgrade project by the Brisbane City Council.

Construction has begun on the first stage of the upgrade of one of The Gap’s most popular parks in early May 2017. The project worth $1.5 million is aimed at encouraging more people to head outdoors and benefit from the public open spaces.

The all-abilities playground will be particularly beneficial as it will provide playground amenities for children of all ages and abilities. Children with disabilities are often left out of standard playgrounds, therefore missing out on the health benefits of outdoor play. This playground will be a perfect place where able-bodied kids and kids with disabilities can play together.

What to Expect

Stage 1 of the project is expected to be completed by late 2017. The first stage will include the following:

  • All-abilities playground added to the existing play area
  • New picnic shelters
  • New toilet facilities
  • Additional shade trees, garden beds and enhanced landscaping
  • Improvement to the existing Lions Club shelter
  • New wayfinding signs
  • Resurfaced car park areas

Development Plan for the Walton Bridge Reserve Playground:

(Source: Brisbane City Council)

 

The upgrade project is a result of consultation and input from local resident and The Gap Residents’ Association.

See the video of how the community contributed to developing the plan for the park.

The council recognises the value of the Walton Bridge Reserve as a vibrant space for locals and as a natural reserve. The council is making sure that the construction will have minimal impact on the natural environment.

Part of the project involves revegetating the Fish and Enoggera Creek area. Removal or trees and trimming will also be limited. In cases where trees need to be removed, they will be replaced to maintain the density of the foliage.

During construction, the north-west part of the park will be closed to the public. The Enoggera Creek Bikeway will still be accessible throughout the construction period.

 

The Gap Farmers’ Market Continues to Enhance Life in the Suburb

Sundays are best spent at the Gap Farmers’ Market. This family-friendly community market is held on the grounds of Hilder Road State School every Sunday from 6:30 a.m. until midday. Locals wake up early to stock up their pantry with the market’s local produce and gourmet items. Breakfast is also readily available from the various food stalls on the market grounds.

Photo credit: The Gap Farmers’ Market / Facebook

The Gap Farmer’s Market always has the freshest produce grown by local farmers. Aside from these fresh fruits and vegetables, the market has almost everything! The goods run the gamut from baked treats, a wide range of soaps, Himalayan salt lamps, fresh flowers, fresh spices and even an on-site blacksmith!

Photo credit: Facebook / The Gap Farmers’ Markets

If you get tired of walking around, you can head for the nearest hay bale and grab a cup of joe. There are also a line of marquees where you can rest your feet while enjoying the market’s live entertainment.

 

 

 

Photo credit: The Gap Farmers’ Markets / Facebook

 

The market is the perfect place to be for those weekend cheat days. Craving Asian food? Try the steamed dumplings. Fancy savoury food? Check out some delicious goat pies and German sausages. Parched? Freshly squeezed juices are the answer.

Kids will enjoy the built-in playground and the petting zoo so it’s definitely a family Sunday at the market whenever you go.

The Gap Farmers’ Market is an initiative of The Gap Residents Association (GAPRA), a non-profit organisation that is committed to promote living in the suburbs and supporting regional agriculture.