FAQs

These include a range of facilities targeted to young people and include skate, dirt BMX, pump, parkour, ninja, multi-courts, unstructured play or exercise equipment, nature play, and activities for wheeled sports including scooters.

The study is in response to a Council decision in April 2022 which followed on from identification of a lack of suitable facilities for young people in these suburbs. The study will ensure holistic planning of types, scale and location of facilities, and will provide the City with a strategic, long term plan for the location and development of skate and BMX facilities.

The nature of the public open space in these suburbs makes it difficult to locate these types of facilities. There is also a high number of young people in these suburbs with nearly 5,000 counted at 2021 census, with another 3,000 in the 5-9 age group.

• Madox Pump Track – asphalt pump track designed for younger children
• Barossa Loop Skate Park (scheduled to be repurposed due to noise issues)

The sites were initially shortlisted based on size of park, distance to houses and other factors such as drainage.  Following community feedback, and more detailed analysis of each site will occur.

The scope of this project is to outline preferred locations including type & scale of facility; and to identify funding options and a staged implementation approach. The decision around specific projects and timing is yet to be made by Council. At the moment we are at concept stage and project delivery is subject to community support, Council approval, detailed design and funding.

The detailed design stage will ensure that youth facilities will complement existing park use.

All types of outdoor youth facilities are being considered, including the needs of all wheeled sports user groups.

The sites selected will not include lighting for night time use, however security lighting may be included.

The scope of this project includes identification of funding options and a staged implementation approach. The decision around specific projects and timing is yet to be made by Council. It is anticipated that a mix of external funding and Council funding will be required.

It is anticipated that many young people using the facilities will access the site through bikes, skateboards, public transport, or be dropped off. Following community feedback, and more detailed analysis of each site will occur including considerations such as access.

Providing safe, inclusive and suitable spaces for young people has been shown through research to make surrounding areas safer and reduce criminal behaviour. The visibility of skate parks and other youth spaces sends a signal to our young people that they are a welcome part of our local identity.

The current study will determine the level and type of facility most suited to each location taking into account noise, proximity to houses and community preferences.

Community consultation is underway at the moment with two community workshops – one in each suburb, and a survey open to all.  This feedback will be incorporated into the development of a draft strategy. The draft strategy will initially be presented to Council, and there will be further opportunity for the community to have their say when the strategy is out for public comment.

For more information, please contact the City on 9394 5000 or email info@armadale.wa.gov.au. Further information can be found on the project page at https://engage.armadale.wa.gov.au/harrisdale-piara-waters-outdoor-youth-facilities.