PlayGround Re-Fit
Man Yee Playground Update 2008
Many Sai Kungers contacted Explore to ask why the playground in Man Yee Square was under renovation "yet again" so we asked the local Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) who are responsible for the park.
Here's what they said:
The construction works has been commenced on 26.3.2008 until 19.5.2008. For the concern of public safety, the children play area is temporarily closed. A rainshelter of 13.8m (L) x 600mm (W) with polycarbonate sheet on top will be provided. The garden bench with backrest will use recycle plastic to replace existing timber for better durability.
We're pleased to see that the department listened to public sentiment expressed during a consultation with the District Officer and multiple emails last year but it seems that there was no consultation with actual users of the playground regarding the new design.
After our previous story highlighting the splintering wood on the benches (which caused grief for more than one Mum), the department did sand down the benches and replace boards that were beyond repair. The replacement with benches of recycled plastic seems a practical, long-range budgetary advantage. However – rather than provide covers similar to those currently in vogue in many countries around the world, it appears that they are looking at similar design to that which is used over the nearby podium.
At least one mother is very annoyed with the design chosen (click for detailed pdf). Paula King suggests that the "glass shelter without a back will be relatively useless" in protecting from the rain when the wind whips up and that the glass overtop will "act as a magnifying glass" under the sun. She also suggests that the playground will now be further cut off from the vision of parents sitting at restaurants such as Jaspas or Ali Oli.
If you are also concerned (or - if you like the design), you can send your thoughts to the local Manager of LCSD as well as our District Officer who is responsible for liaison between residents and the government.
Leisure & Cultural Services Dept. WONG Shu Yan, Francis District Leisure Mgr (Sai Kung) |
District Officer
CHAN Ping Fai, Peter, JP District Officer, Sai Kung |