The playground, located at Riverside Park, will feature a 25 metre-long flying fox, a water play area, three swing sets, climbing bars, a six metre tall climbing net and a natural playscape area with log stumps and boulders to climb and balance on.

Kempsey Shire Council's manager of technical and civic services Trevor Dickson said the upgrade was part of council’s Kempsey Bypass Corridor Masterplan. 

The design has been developed by council under the guidance from community interest groups as well as healthcare and early childhood development experts. 

“Basically the existing playground was pretty tired. It was put it in like 25 years ago. Everyone was crying out for a revamp so we decided to do the upgrade as part of Kempsey’s corridor revitalisation,” Mr Dickson said.  

The playground will maximise accessibility for people with mobility difficulties and encourage healthy physical and social interaction Mr Dickson said.  

“I think it will be a bit of a drawcard for locals and visitors. We want visitors to pull off the highway, stop into Kempsey and enjoy our town.” 

Council hopes to finish work on the playground by November to coincide with the proposed Macleay Valley Children’s Week celebrations.

Rotary Clubs in the Macleay and local contractor O’Donnell and Hanlon have made major pledges towards the project. 

A contingent of members from the Kempsey-Crescent Head Surf Life Saving Club along with some local volunteers will be at the park on the weekend to help with the upgrade.   

Mr Dickson said council would like to get as many volunteers and local businesses to help out where possible. Locals interested should contact Caleb Paul or Katy Rogan at council on 6566 3200 for more information.