Families across Canning now have a new place to play this summer, with the highly anticipated Shelley Beach Playground now officially open.
Located along the banks of the Canning River on the Shelley Beach Foreshore, the $2.2 million development, which was first conceptualised in the area’s draft master plan created in 2019, has seen the creation of three distinct play areas, each designed to cater to different age groups.
Features of the newly opened play space include a custom-designed Park Warrior course, sensory play elements, and interactive structures, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
Additionally, new shared pathways, extra seating, and infrastructure upgrades to enhance accessibility for the community were also part of the park’s upgrades, which began earlier this year.
Canning Mayor Patrick Hall was thrilled to officially open the playground, believing the accessible, well-designed space is a place where families can gather and enjoy outdoor activities, and a project that embodies the City of Canning’s vision.
“As a Council, we are committed to funding community projects that create improved liveability for our residents, and the Shelley Beach Playground – the City of Canning’s first district-level playground, certainly meets that objective,” Mayor Hall said.
“The input from our community has been instrumental in shaping this space, and with the support of Lotterywest, we are proud to see this vision come to life, providing a vibrant new destination for all to enjoy.”
The multi-generational playgrounds, suitable for children aged 0-12+, were designed through collaboration between the City and residents.
In December 2022, a meet-and-greet session at Shelley Beach Park saw nearly 300 participants share their thoughts and ideas about the play space with the project team, helping to create a shared vision for the development.
The upgrade and development of the space is part of a broader $44 million investment from the City, aimed at enhancing public spaces and providing better recreational options for residents and visitors.
Other projects part of the investment include the Maniana Park Redevelopment in the Queens Park Open Space and the Kent Street Weir Precinct Redevelopment.
The Shelley Beach Playground development was also funded by a $750,000 grant from Lotterywest. CEO of Lotterywest, Colin Smith, said he is pleased to see a new space for the community open.
“Lotterywest is pleased to have supported the City of Canning in the creation of this wonderful new playground. It’s a space where families can spend time together, and children can enjoy a range of play experiences,” Smith said.
