A concept plan shows early ideas for the layout, play themes and key features of the playspace. It helps test ideas before detailed design. We’re seeking feedback on what you like, what could be improved, and anything we may have missed, including accessibility, safety and how the concept plans work with the site.

The concept plan brief included:

• A nature‑inspired look and feel, using materials and shapes that reflect the local environment
• Separate junior and senior play areas to support children of different ages and abilities
• Use of the existing embankment to create an integrated slide feature
• Six accessible play elements to support inclusive play for everyone

Concept design has been guided by a community working group and Council’s playground hierarchy for 'district‑level playspaces.'*

This means the playspace should aim to include play mainly for children under 10, around 10–15 play items, at least 50% accessible play elements, nature and imaginative play opportunities, seating for carers and improved fencing.

*Mount Alexander Shire Council Playground Hierarchy and Levels of Service.

Negotiables:

We will use community input to:

• Shape some elements of the design, such as the types of play equipment
• Develop the look and feel of the play space

Non-Negotiables

We will finalise detailed designs to meet the following priorities:

• Upgrades to remain as close as possible to the existing footprint of the current playspace
• Design must respect Maldon’s heritage and reflect the character of the surrounding area
• Design must respond to the site’s natural features, including the slope from the Bill Woodfull Recreation Reserve oval, drainage flows, existing vegetation and the current path network
• The health of the existing pine trees - this limits opportunities to expand play elements in this area