By BRIDGET SCOTT
A GROUP of Tooradin parents have called for a playground to be created on a vacant plot of land near their estate, as children have resorted to playing on the streets.
The reserve, located on the corner of Sambur Road and Chellamah Close, currently has a footpath through the middle as well as a park bench.
Mother-of-one Melinda Lenders, along with Kate Vanderheyden are spearheading the action and lobbying council for a new playground.
Ms Lenders said there were “no facilities” on their side of the highway.
“This estate is mostly families with young kids,” she said.
“The problem for us is that one of the playgrounds is on the foreshore, and that is frequented more by tourists.”
“It’s hard to get a park.”
Ms Lenders said there was nothing in good walking distance and said she believed council had no plans for the land at this stage.
City of Casey manager for Sport and Leisure Richard Amon said that council’s Playground Strategy guided the prioritisation of upgrades and new playgrounds across the municipality.
However, he agreed that there is some need for a playground in the area in question.
“Considering the distance and major road barriers to the nearest playground from the residential area around Sambur Road, there is some merit for the development of a local level playground at the vacant site in question,” he said.
“Further planning and scoping is required before this particular location can be considered for inclusion in Council’s Playground Strategy and funding program.”
Ms Lenders, who has lived in Tooradin since 2008, said there needed to be more entertainment for local children.
“Because of the lack (of playgrounds) children are often playing on the street,” she said.
“There are often mini skate ramps and basketball rings on the roads, which is quite dangerous for kids.”
The group has begun a petition with 100 signatories and also written to council to voice their concerns.
