A LACK of shade has prevented some parents taking their children to a Swan Hill playground, but council has indicated it has no plans to install more cover.
Fears of children sustaining burns from hot equipment or being sunburnt due to a lack of shade at Steggall Park All-Abilities Playground at Tower Hill are among the concerns of parents.
Although three shade sails have been installed over some play equipment, much of the play area and picnic benches are without cover.
Mother-of-two Julie Greaves said, especially in the afternoon, the existing shade sails did not provide cover to the equipment they were supposed to, leaving children at risk of sunburn. She added that the equipment got very hot in full sun. “It is a nice park, but it would be better if we had more shade,” Ms Greaves said.
“There is no chance of coming here on a 35C-plus day.”
Swan Hill parent Bianca Milano said the lack of shade meant she did not often use the park.
“There is no shade over the tables, at this time of the year it is okay, but in hot summer months it’s too hot,” Ms Milano said.
Swan Hill Rural City Council director of corporate services David Lenton said council would not consider installing extra shade at the playground.
“The idea is that the trees and vines planted throughout the playground area will grow to provide natural shade,” Mr Lenton said.
“In the meantime, there are three shade areas provided in the playground, and the shaded barbecue area as well.
“We have no specific plans for Steggall Park shade at the moment.”
For the full story, pick up a copy of Wednesday’s Guardian (April 23).
