City of Darwin is pleased to release a concept design for a new Multigenerational Recreation Space in Waters Ward which has been developed with feedback received from the community.

Once complete, the new Multigenerational Recreation Space will provide a recreation space where people of all ages and abilities can come together and interact.

Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis said the staged and prioritised project will include a multigenerational regional playground and other recreational elements as well as lighting, new pathways, an improved car park and public facilities.

“Feedback from the community was positive for the development of a new multigenerational recreation space in Malak, with over 68 per cent of respondents agreeing with Malak Oval as the most appropriate location and over half of respondents saying they would visit the space with their children,” Mr Vatskalis said. 

“Safety and security were key concerns raised by the community, and the concept has been developed to address this by incorporating elements such as additional lighting, improved visibility throughout the park and location of amenities in high traffic areas.

“Enhanced parking options were also important, and the concept design includes a new and improved car park that can be utilised by people who frequently use the Malak Oval area and the surrounding buildings including the City of Darwin community centre and childcare facility.

“We know creating cool, clean and green spaces with ample shade is a priority, and the design will increase shading using various methods such as tree canopy, shade sails and seating shelters. 

“We are confident that, once complete, this space will cater to the diverse community and benefit residents, including young families, seniors and people who are new to the area,” he said.

The first stage of the project will include infrastructure upgrades made to the carpark and access paths as well as the installation of some fixed play equipment, with these elements scheduled to be complete in the next financial year.

The area surrounding Malak Oval was identified as the preferred location for the recreation space due to its proximity to transport corridors, schools, local amenities and other recreation and community facilities.

With the completion of public consultation in August 2024, the concept design has been developed, incorporating community feedback, and endorsed by Council to proceed to detailed design. 

Previously, City of Darwin committed $500,000 for the investigation, consultation and design of the recreation space. As per City of Darwin’s Draft Municipal Plan 2025/26 a further $1.5 million will be contributed towards construction, in addition to a grant funding promise from the Northern Territory Government of $500,000.

To view the results of the engagement, visit https://www.engage.darwin.nt.gov.au/waters-ward-multigenerational-recreation-space

For more information on City of Darwin’s Play Space Strategy, visit darwin.nt.gov.au/council/about-council/publications-and-forms/play-space-strategy