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Parents across the Hawkesbury have expressed surprise and disappointment following the sudden closure and removal of playgrounds, saying they were given no prior notice or opportunity to provide feedback.
In a statement issued by Hawkesbury City Council, officials confirmed that multiple playgrounds across the region are being closed or partially dismantled as part of what they describe as a broader safety and asset management program.
According to Council, inspections revealed that several play structures have reached the end of their usable life and pose safety risks due to age and wear. As a result, playgrounds at North Richmond Community Precinct and McMahon Park, Kurrajong have been temporarily closed, with new facilities planned for the future.
However, other sites face a more permanent outcome.
All play equipment at Chestnut Drive, Glossodia and Matheson Park, Kurrajong is set to be removed, with Council confirming there are currently no plans for replacement. At additional locations including Andrew Town Park (Hobartville), Grand Parade Reserve (Glossodia) and Bowen Mountain Park selected equipment will be removed due to safety concerns, with only remaining items to be maintained.
Council says these decisions are part of a necessary process of “rationalisation,” citing budget constraints and the need to prioritise investment in larger, higher-use play spaces such as Woodbury Reserve.
Community Left Out of the Conversation
Despite Council’s safety justification, the lack of consultation has become the central issue for many families.
Parents told the Hawkesbury Gazette they were unaware of any proposed closures until equipment was fenced off or removed.
“There was no warning one day it was there, the next it was gone,” said one local parent. “These parks are part of our daily routine.”
Others raised concerns about equity, noting that smaller neighbourhood playgrounds play a critical role for young families who rely on walkable access to outdoor spaces.
How did this happen
Council use to employ a local Kurrajong based contractor with over 30 years experience, to inspect and maintain playground equipment. The contract ended some time ago. Council has refused to answer questions on when the playgrounds were inspected and the reports requiring closure of the playgrounds were recieved.
It would appear the equipment has gone uninspected until recently.
Further it is alleged that no provisions have been made for maintenaince and upkeep in progressive Council budgets resulting in the inability to replace playgrounds.
Questions Go Unanswered
The Hawkesbury Gazette submitted a series of questions to Council seeking clarification on community consultation, long-term planning, and criteria used to determine which playgrounds would be removed or retained.
Council declined to respond.
This lack of engagement has further frustrated residents, particularly at a time when families are already navigating limited local services and infrastructure.
A Broader Issue for Growing Communities
The closures come amid ongoing conversations about liveability in the Hawkesbury, where access to essential amenities, including childcare, healthcare, and recreational spaces continues to lag behind population growth.
For many families, local playgrounds are more than just play equipment they are vital community hubs that support social connection, physical activity, and child development.
While Council maintains that safety must come first, residents say transparency and consultation should not come second.
As one parent put it: “We understand things wear out. But we should at least be part of the conversation about what replaces them or if anything does.”
Community Centres with adjoining playgrounds hiring their halls for public use may want to advise hirers that the playground facilities are currently unavailable for the foreseeable future.
