Project Overview
Creating big play value in a compact space.
Our brief for Heador Street Playground, Central Coast, NSW was to design and construct a play space that could support children aged 2 to 12, provide easy access, and deliver a strong mix of active, inclusive and sensory play.
The biggest challenge was the available footprint. The brief required a tower to be included, but the site offered limited space to work with. Through a custom design approach, we focused on building play value vertically, using height, climbing, ropes and layered play opportunities to make the most of the compact area.
The result is a unique tower-based play space that fits the site, supports a variety of play experiences and gives the local community a welcoming place to gather, explore and play.
A key requirement was to include a swing, while still making room for a tower structure within the small footprint. This meant the design needed to be carefully considered, with each piece of equipment selected and positioned to maximise play value without overcrowding the space.
Client: Central Coast Council
Location: Heador Street, NSW
Completed: 4 May 2026
Project Type: Custom playground design
Project Design
Playground Design Features
The custom tower became the central feature of the playground. Designed specifically for the site, it allowed us to introduce height, climbing and adventure into a compact area while maintaining a practical and easy-to-navigate layout.
Vertical play elements were an important part of the design response. By encouraging children to climb, move upward and explore different levels, the playground delivers more play opportunities within a smaller ground area. This approach helped maximise the footprint while still offering challenge, movement and variety for different ages and confidence levels.
Rope play elements add another layer of active play, helping children build coordination, balance, strength and confidence. Sensory panels, including the Surf Shack Panel, provide opportunities for imaginative play, tactile exploration and quieter engagement for children who enjoy a more sensory-focused experience.
Inclusivity
The basket swing adds an inclusive element to the space, supporting children of different abilities and confidence levels. The 4 Person Rocker encourages shared play, cooperation and connection, making it a great feature for siblings, friends and small groups.
Landscaping
Landscaping and Surfacing
To complete the playspace, the project included practical landscaping and surfacing works to support safe, comfortable and accessible everyday use.
Landscaping and surfacing elements included:
- Turf
- Edging
- Concrete slab
- Softfall
- Mulch and rubber surfacing
These finishing touches help define the playground, improve usability and create a clean, welcoming space for families and the surrounding community.
Project Outcome
Heador Street Playground is a great example of how a tight site can still deliver a thoughtful, engaging and inclusive play outcome.
The custom tower was unique to this playspace and demonstrates how we can work closely with councils to respond to site constraints without losing sight of the original vision. By using vertical play elements, ropes and a carefully planned layout, we were able to maximise play value within the compact footprint while still creating a space that feels open, functional and fun.
The finished playground brings together active play, sensory engagement, inclusive equipment and practical landscaping in a way that feels considered, community-focused and easy to enjoy.
Nearby Projects
Heador Street Playground forms part of our broader project experience across New South Wales, with nearby playground and open space works including:
Picnic Point Playground, Applegum Park, Lions Park, Woodbury Park, Maidens Brush Park, Young St Reserve, Ben Davies Park, Oregon Place Reserve, Parkland Reserve, Tom Burke Park, St Lawrence Reserve, Harry Moore Oval and Jenny Dixon Reserve.
These projects reflect our experience working with councils and communities to deliver practical, engaging and inclusive play outcomes across a wide range of sites, budgets and community needs.
Need a custom playground solution for a tight site?
Every project is different, and we know how important it is to make the most of the space you have.
At Austek Play, we work with councils, schools and communities to design and deliver playgrounds that suit your site, budget and project goals. From initial sketch to site and beyond, our team can support you with in-house design, equipment supply, installation, surfacing, landscaping and after-sales service.
If you’re planning a new playground or upgrading an existing space, we’re here to help bring your community’s vision to life.
