Community views sought on Buttenshaw Park upgrade through online dance party

Blue Mountains City Council is in the early stages of making plans to upgrade Buttenshaw Park in Springwood, which will include a new youth space and adventure playground.

With the current COVID-19 restrictions we can’t meet with the community in person to talk about the plans and get ideas, so we’re doing the next best thing – hosting a free and family-friendly online dance party to celebrate and seek community input!

The online dance party will be held on Friday 1 May, from 7-9.30pm. Participants can register online, and nominate a song to be played by the DJ on the night.

We’re also asking participants, and the broader community, to complete the online survey and use the Funbobulator to create a youth space that will help shape the future of Buttenshaw Park. Both the survey and Funbobulator close Sunday 3 May.

Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill said, “Providing spaces for youth of all ages to feel welcome and engaged in our community is critical, and sadly often overlooked.

“We have over 100 parks and more than 50 playgrounds across the mountains. Every park is different and Council is working to ensure we provide varied play types and experiences for all ages.

“Engaging with the community during COVID-19 presents a unique challenge for us, and the online dance party is a really fun and creative way Council staff are continuing to work with the community.

“Normally Council would hold an event on site, to meet the community and get their ideas, and celebrate the plans we’re making together. In lieu of that, we’ve moved the party online so no one misses out on this important part of the process,” Mayor Greenhill said.

Buttenshaw Park has the potential to become a youth-focused space because of its larger size and location. The park is located next to the Springwood Aquatic and Fitness Centre and some sports courts. The sloping hill also allows for more challenging play opportunities that are suited to older kids and youth.

Council is also completing a Plan of Management and Masterplan for Buttenshaw Park, and need the community’s help to guide these documents that will determine other future use of the park. These plans will include the City Deal upgrades, as well as a broader plans for the park.

Sign up to join the online dance party and have your say.

Get more information on all Liveability Program projects.

Photo: DJ Colin Tache from Funky Functions will perform at the Online Dance Party, along with Warren Bennison.

This project will be funded under the Western Parkland City Liveability Program, which is part of the Western Sydney City Deal (WSCD). The WSCD is a 20 year-agreement between Australian and NSW governments, and the eight local Councils of the Western Parkland City.