Kelso Community Hub launches new outdoor recreational space

The Kelso Community Hub's new outdoor recreational space was officially opened on Wednesday morning, providing a vibrant, innovative and interactive area for the local community.

Funding for the outdoor space came from round three of the NSW Government's Social Housing Community Improvement Fund of $50,000, with $12,500 donated by the Great Walk Foundation in May too, as well as Bathurst Regional Council funds.

Bathurst mayor Graeme Hanger said the new space will benefit the Kelso community.

"To see this place and just imagining the use it is going to get, it's just phenomenal," he said.

"This area is used all the day, everyday and this new space will be great for the local community.

"It's also wheelchair friendly, so it's really inclusive to everyone.

"It's will be a place to enjoy."

Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said the space will be a fantastic location that will transform the community.

"I've driven past this area many, many times and I see families using it all the time," he said.

"This is a fantastic space that will transform the Kelso community."

The new space includes slides, swings, monkey bars and a wheel chair-friendly roundabout, as well as a partially-sheltered area with benches.

Trees have been planted which over the years will grow to provide a natural shade for users.

Sydney-based Landscape Architects designed the new space, with architect Fiona Robbe saying the local community was consulted throughout the design process.

"We consulted with kids and what they've said to us has shaped the design," she said.

"That's why you see hang out spaces, swings and monkey bars and the things the kids were asking for, the parents were also asking for the same thing.

"Council has invested in what the kids have asked for and that's the sign of a caring community."

A range of valuable community services operates from the Kelso Community Hub such as healthcare, education, sporting and other recreational activities for the community.

There is also a fully equipped kitchen which is used for services including the Kelso Community breakfast club program which operates three mornings per week.