Council has been given an extension until 1 February to start work on the redevelopment of Hindmarsh Park, now not to include improvements to Black Beach due to cost constraints.

The $3 million project is being funding by the State Government’s NSW Public Spaces Legacy Program.

The tender for the final design has just closed, and is due to be awarded at Council's December Meeting.

The final design incorporates feedback from the community on the 35 per cent design. It has led to the inclusion of additional play space items – including ones with more height and for older children, additional tree planting, removing metal slides from the design and adding in more climbing and natural play elements.

Showing the playground with (left) and without (right) the shade elements

As a statement from Council puts it, "The play space final design is inspired by the indigenous and cultural heritage of Kiama including its natural environment, the harbour and maritime heritage, history of dairy farming and basalt mining.

"The playground is designed to be distinctive and proudly ‘Kiama’."

The redevelopment will also see the upgrade of the Orry Kelly stage, with a new roof, technical enhancements and stairs all around.