Published on Monday, 9 February 2026 at 10:23:50 AM
Families across the Shire of Esperance are invited to help shape the future of local playgrounds and public open spaces, with consultation opening on the draft Playgrounds and Public Open Space Strategy.
The draft Strategy will guide the improvement and maintenance of playgrounds and public open spaces across the Shire over the coming years, including where upgrades are prioritised and which features matter most to local families.
It’s been about 10 years since the last plan, and the Shire is checking what’s working now and what needs to change as neighbourhoods grow and families’ needs evolve.
During this period, the Shire has renewed 12 playgrounds and converted six local parks into landscaped public open space under the previous plan. Bespoke playgrounds have also been delivered in locations including Salmon Gums, Cascade, Gibson and Adventureland Park in Esperance.
Comment on the parks and playgrounds you use
Residents can provide feedback through an online map that shows the Shire’s Regional, District, Neighbourhood and Local parks. Feedback can be submitted on individual parks, including notes and recommendations outlined in the draft Strategy.
Recommendations range from no replacement of play equipment at some sites through to larger planned upgrades and tailored playground developments at others, based on audits and risk assessments.
Quality over quantity ... do you still agree?
Previous community feedback highlighted a preference for fewer playgrounds overall, as long as the playgrounds that remain are higher quality. The Shire is asking whether this approach still reflects what the community wants today.
CEO Shane Burge said planning playground upgrades needs to balance community expectations with safety requirements and responsible budgeting.
“Playgrounds are high-use community spaces, and they also come with safety responsibilities. Every upgrade needs to be carefully planned, budgeted and delivered to the right safety standards.”
Shire President Ron Chambers said hearing from families now will help set priorities as the community grows and changes.
“We want to hear from the families who use these spaces, what’s working, what’s missing, and what you’d like to see at your local park.”
“In past consultations, some areas didn’t provide much feedback, but those same areas may now be home to lots of young families,” President Chambers said.
“If you feel your local playground isn’t meeting your family’s needs, or you have a great idea to improve a playground, please go to the Shire’s website, click the link, and leave a comment on the map. If you use these parks, your voice should help shape what happens next.”
ENDS
Consultation dates
Consultation is open from 9 February to 9 March 2026.
Have your say: Visit the Playgrounds & Public Open Space Strategy Review page
Within the map:
• Click the park(s) you use
• Read the notes and recommendations
• Share your comments, or rate the park
The Draft Strategy is available on the Shire's Current Consultations webpage.
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