Construction begins on AU$3.8m all-ages playground

Construction has commenced for a new AU$3.8m all-ages, nature-based playground at Perth Zoo, as part of a masterplan created by Tenderstream member Hassell in collaboration with Iredale Pedersen Hook. The unique and cutting-edge design, built by Crothers Construction, encourages play which mimics and celebrates the zoo’s animals and conservation work. Hassell is helping Western Australia’s capital city chart the next 20 years for their zoo as they push to extend their role in species conservation and education.

Key features of the new playground include a “cloud deck”, a climbable upscaled model of a numbat (an Australian marsupial), rope tunnels, swinging ropes, feather hammocks, slides, audio spotlights and more. The deck is the heart of the playground, using bridges, tunnels and ropes to provide an elevated experience. A mister system simulates a cloud, while model cockatoos fly overhead.

The playground is expected to open simultaneously with the new café and function centre, improving the visitor experience and facilities. Environment Minister Reece Whitby stated: “The new play space will be fun, vibrant and educational. It will allow Western Australian children and their friends to connect with nature and explore. I look forward to seeing the entire community enjoy the new playground and café this Spring, which also coincides with Perth Zoo’s momentous 125th birthday.”

Looking ahead, the zoo’s masterplan includes a conservation precinct showcasing veterinary, research and breeding innovations. Other upgrades will introduce an overhead ‘raceway’ where lemurs and gibbons can exercise and explore, as well as reimagined spaces to replace the zoo’s existing orangutan, tiger and primate exhibits. The zoo will continue to be home to a wide range of Western Australian animals as well as endangered exotic species, primarily drawn from the Indian Ocean rim and South-East Asia.

Hassell principal Anthony Brookfield stated: “Our team wanted to create a flexible 20-year framework for Perth Zoo to facilitate a vibrant, sustainable, and experience-focused place for both animals and humans alike.”

Lucy Nordberg
Tenderstream Head of Research

This tender was first published by Tenderstream on 13.02.2019 here

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