When restrictions on using playground equipment across the city were lifted only two weeks ago, hundreds of people pouring into parks across Orange to use swings and slides.
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However, children turning up to Cook Park this week were greeted by the sight of the swings removed as they make way for upgraded playground equipment.
Contractors were unavailable to begin the work during lockdown, but Orange City Councillor Jason Hamling said council was pleased to be able to bring in a swing set more accessible to children with disabilities, which is a first for the city.
"One of the new swings is 'boat-shaped' and will let children with a disability have fun there. Another swing lets a parent and a children get on the swing together, in separate seats," Cr Hamling said.
"This will be a first for parks in Orange. We'll also be installing a rubber soft-fall surface under the equipment instead of the former loose surface.
"A flat surface makes it better for a child with a disability or an elderly carer."
Cr Hamling said the six new swings would replace the old set of six, with the project expected to be completed in the first week or two of June, weather permitting.
He said it would be a important upgrade to "one of Orange's most beautiful and historic parks".
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Max Stainkamph
Max joined the CWD in September 2017, leaving the big smoke of Melbourne to come to Orange, where he stayed until 2020.
Max joined the CWD in September 2017, leaving the big smoke of Melbourne to come to Orange, where he stayed until 2020.
