Corea Oval Playground located in Sylvania within the Sutherland Shire was upgraded by Sutherland Shire Council in 2021-22. PORT was engaged to provide landscape design and documentation services for concept, tender and construction phases.

This playground was set amongst a number of mature Eucalypts and Angophoras and some more recently planted paperbarks. While contributing greatly to the beauty of this playground, new play zones had to be located carefully to avoid impact on the root zones of these trees. The types of play equipment that would fit in the existing playground footprint were limited by it’s shape so a new shape was proposed that would allow for more choice in equipment.

A perimeter path provides access to all areas of the playgrounds as does the synthetic turf surface which allows less mobile users to engage with the carousel and ground level play panels. The path also adds play value and can be used by children on small bikes and scooters. The path connects existing gates and access points with a new picnic setting, seating, bike racks, bubbler and bin. Sandstone blocks provide casual seating and can also be used as additional play items to hop between.

As many mature trees as possible were retained onsite and a number of new trees were planted to connect the tree canopy to surrounding natural areas. Low native grass plantings were incorporated to contribute to the natural look of the playground and connect habitat to the adjacent creekline.

It is my hope that this playground offers easy access and exciting play opportunities for all users and a relaxing, comfortable setting for parents and carers.