Children at Darcy’s Peak still do not know when their playground will be built.
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New residents at the Stockland development, in Gillieston Heights, were told that playground equipment would be erected at the corner of Champion Crescent and Scenic Drive.
The playground was a condition of Maitland City Council’s approval of the development proposal in 2006, but the facility has not been built.
Darcy’s Peak resident Michelle Adams said neither Stockland or council had contacted residents to keep them informed of the project’s progress, despite previous talk of an update by the end of March.
Ms Adams was concerned that continued delays were a sign that the playground would never be built.
“It’s frustrating to no end. It’s like battling a brick wall,” she said.
“Stockland has made its profits and is going away because there is no reason to enhance Darcy’s Peak because they are not going to sell any more land there.”
Maitland City Council development assessment co-ordinator Leanne
Harris said council would continue to work with Stockland to deliver the playground. Ms Harris said council would inform residents of the playground’s progress as decisions were made.
Cr Philip Penfold said he understood the initial development approval required Stockland to erect the playground.
Instead Stockland will prepare the land and dedicate it to the city so council can build the playground.
“Council wants the land dedicated in a fit state,” Cr Penfold said.
“I think Stockland needs to act more quickly to finish what has been promised.
“I am confident that council officers are doing everything they can.”
Stockland residential development manager Matt Sullivan said it would take about six weeks to complete remaining earthworks, drainage and turf laying at the site.
Mr Sullivan said no date had been confirmed for the land dedication.
“Importantly, the funding for the playground was planned through progressive developer cash contributions from new residential development across Gillieston Heights,” he said.
“This includes contributions from Stockland’s Darcy’s Peak project and a neighbouring residential development.”