Parks projects improve playground and joggers track

LOCAL joggers and playground enthusiasts are in for a treat following the commencement of two projects that will see the upgrades of Wellesley Park in South Hobart and the Joggers Loop on the Queens Domain.

A new nature playground in Wellesley Park will feature natural elements such as logs and boulders for children to climb and balance upon.

Swings and a slide will remain, but the slide will be set into the landscape.

The playground upgrade follows work on the oval surface, new lighting, refurbished public toilets and a new pavilion.

At the Queens Domain, a new soft-fall surface is being trialled alongside the asphalt path of the existing joggers loop as the first stage of a plan to create a better running track.

In 2015, there were calls from the recreational running community for a Tan Track that was similar to the iconic jogging track in Melbourne, which could possibly use existing tracks on the Queens Domain.

Deputy Mayor of Hobart Alderman Ron Christie said the Council embraced the idea to upgrade the existing joggers loop on the Queens Domain to provide runners, bike riders and recreational walkers with a purpose-built facility not currently available in the city.

“We commissioned consultants Inspiring Place to engage with key stakeholders to investigate its feasibility,” he said.

“We consulted with stakeholders from athletic, health and wellbeing, cycling and advocacy groups, as well as competitive and recreational runners and the broader community.

“The outcome was overwhelmingly positive, with significant community support for the project.

“The Queens Domain is a park for the people and as a council, we are committed to providing opportunities and facilities that encourage healthy activity in our community.

“What better location is there than Hobart’s premier urban park for a recreational facility of this type?”

Stage 1 works began in late May and will continue for approximately 10-weeks.

Runners will still be able to access the joggers loop during the ten-week construction phase but may have to detour at times.

Work will also be undertaken to improve signage and the car park facilities at the start of the track.

For more information about the project, visit

www.hobartcity.com.au/Projects/Major_Council_projects/Queens_Domain_Program/Joggers_Loop.

Photo credit: City of Hobart.