Milnebank Reserve play space has had a good run but it’s time for an upgrade 🛝🪁

Earlier this year we heard from people who use the reserve. They shared lots of ideas for what they’d like to see. We’re not able to include everything, but we’ve used their feedback to develop options for the new space. It's important we include play items that are inclusive for as many people as possible, so in each option a play item and suitable surfacing has been selected.

There are three options to choose from and we want to know which one you prefer.

There are some changes that need to happen regardless like moving the play space from the south end to the north end of the reserve, close to Milnebank Street. This is to make sure everyone can see what's going on in the play space at most times of the day.

🔎 Check out the hotspot tools below to find out what's included in each option.

Option 1 includes an accessible carousel, a viking swing, a slide, nature play (stepping and balancing logs, and stepping stone), and an accessible picnic table. You can view the plan in more detail here.

When removed, the existing playground area will be resown with grass.

Option 2 includes a tube slide, a gravity rider, bucket swing / toddler swing set and an accessible picnic table. You can view the plan in more detail here.

When removed, the existing playground will be resown with grass.

Option 3 includes a modular play set, gravity spinner, basket swing / standard swing set and an accessible picnic table. You can view the plan in more detail here.

When removed, the existing playground will be resown with grass.

We’ve started a major tree planting program (the Urban Forest Plan) across Ōtautahi Christchurch to grow our urban canopy.

Trees provide space for us to relax and play, a home for birdlife, insects and other wildlife, enhancement of our environment, a source of food to nourish and heal us, and improve our wellbeing. Trees are also an effective way to reduce the effects of climate change. They provide shade as our summers get hotter, help absorb more stormwater, soak up carbon dioxide and filter the air.

We’ll carefully select the right tree in the right location to complement the local environment to avoid things like excessive shade, debris, damage to property or infrastructure.