Contract awarded for Bridge Mall play space

Playground specialist Kompan has been awarded the contract to design and deliver a new ‘bridge-like’ play space as part of the redevelopment of the Bridge Mall.

Kompan is a leading global supplier of quality play spaces and equipment.

The tender was approved at the Contracts Approval Delegated Committee, a delegated committee of Council, on 10 May 2023 for $956,433 (ex GST). Two tender submissions were received.

The ‘bridge-like’ play space is based on a concept design launched as part of the final designs for the Bridge Mall redevelopment, featuring multiple levels of access, challenge and playful adventure. As part of the contract, Kompan will refine the concept designs ready for construction.

City of Ballarat Deputy Mayor, Cr Amy Johnson said the awarding of the play space contract is another exciting step in getting the much-anticipated redevelopment underway.

“It is fantastic to award the contract for the unique design and delivery of the new play space to an experienced playground specialist,” she said.

“The play space will spark much joy while also creating a key drawcard for families and carers, encouraging more people to meet, stay and play in the revitalised precinct.”

The redevelopment is based on the vision, concepts and aspirations of the Bakery Hill and Bridge Mall Urban Renewal Plan (2019). This plan included three stages of community consultation, hearing feedback from across the community over a two-year period.  

An upgraded play space was one of the most popular elements throughout the extensive community consultation.

Works on the Bridge Mall redevelopment are expected to commence mid-year with the construction expected to take approximately 12 months.

At the 26 April council meeting, Ballarat City Council awarded the contract for the main civil works and landscaping to experienced civil construction company 2Construct.

The City of Ballarat is working with 2Construct and traders to map out the construction stage, including the schedule of works.

Fully-funded by the City of Ballarat, the redevelopment covers upgrades to the mall between Grenville and Peel Streets, Grenville Street between Curtis and Little Bridge Street, with minor access and safety improvements to pockets of Little Bridge Street,  

Key design features include a landscaped entry from Sturt Street, a shared streetscape with one-way low-speed vehicle access, smart street lighting and projections, limited parking and better access for people of all abilities.  

It also includes new street furniture and bluestone paving, cultural elements reflected in the designs, including a portal to the Yarrowee River flowing beneath the street, and event friendly spaces for markets, festivities, and special events.

For more information visit www.ballarat.vic.gov.au/bridge-mall