Children’s playgrounds upgraded

The MSAR government has granted a contract worth MOP20 million (US$2.5 million) for the refurbishment project of two children’s playgrounds in Taipa Central Park, according to a dispatch released yesterday in the Official Gazette.
The dispatch states that the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau (IACM) will be in charge of the project.
In response to Business Daily’s enquiries regarding the details of the refurbishment project, IACM explained that the works aim to make the two small playgrounds into one themed playground, given that they are getting more deteriorated.
‘Taipa Central Park currently has two children’s playgrounds. The playgrounds are becoming more crowded and due to being constantly used, the facilities have become worn out since they were opened,’ said the IACM spokesperson in the emailed reply.
After the renovation works, the two playgrounds, one 2,300 square metres and the other 1,7010 square metres, will consist of large and auxiliary playing facilities, sign boards showing the rules of the facilities, a protection fence, safety mats, sinks, benches, LED lights and floor lamps, according to the Bureau.
The IACM spokesman added in the email that the project also includes the adjustment of drainage and irrigation systems, in order to create green surroundings for the playground areas.

Targeted by Audit Commission
In May last year, the Commission of Audit (CA) slammed the Land, Public Works and Transport Bureau (DSSOPT) on its lack of management when constructing the park, pointing out in an audit report that the playing facilities and safety mats for kids in the park had many ‘deficiencies’ even after the opening of the park.
‘The climbing ladder was too high and the bulging angles of the safety mats in the kids playing area were easy for children to stumble on, all of which require modifications and replacements,’ the Commission said at that time.
According to the report, the construction of the entire park cost MOP441 million, with further expenses of MOP48.8 million due to alterations of the project proposed by the construction company.
In addition to the DSSOPT, IACM, who are now in charge of the refurbishment of the facilities, were also slammed by the CA in September this year for their negligence in monitoring other municipal parks, namely the Sai Van Lake Square and its surrounding areas, the park of Iao Hon Market and the Leisure Area of Edf. Nam Ou Garden.