New playground for Golden Square
Golden Square in Bicentennial Park is set to become an even more welcoming and vibrant place for local families, with the long‑awaited playground upgrade.
Designed with the community, for the community
Golden Square has always been a cherished pocket of green space for Burnley residents.
The new playground aims to build on that legacy, creating a more inclusive, imaginative and community‑centred space for everyone to enjoy.
The upgraded playground will include:
play for everyone – more diverse, inclusive play options that welcome toddlers, older kids and children of all abilities.
a space families can share – improved accessibility so everyone can enjoy the park together.
cooler, greener, more comfortable – nine new mature trees boosting shade and comfort.
a cubby built to last – refreshed with durable, sustainable materials.
healthy outdoor fun – more opportunities for active play that supports children’s wellbeing.
These changes reflect a shared vision: a park that grows with the community and supports everyday connection.
Concept designs
Celebrating local stories and the beloved ‘Fairy Tree’
One of the most treasured features of Golden Square in Bicentennial Park - the much‑loved ‘Fairy Tree’ - will take centre stage in the new design.
Residents made it clear how important this tree is to the character of the park, and the upgrade honours that sentiment.
The design introduces ‘mini beasts’ and stone etchings woven throughout the landscape, creating playful moments that celebrate the tree’s significance and spark children’s imaginations.
It’s a thoughtful nod to the stories, memories and small wonders that make neighbourhood parks feel magical.
Honouring community champions
Council acknowledges the enduring contributions of the late Ron and Shirley Pinnell, whose advocacy helped secure the site for community use after the demolition of Burnley Primary School.
Their dedication ensured that Golden Square Bicentennial Park remained a place for locals to gather, play and connect - a legacy that continues through this upgrade.
What's happening now
An excavator is on site at Golden Square preparing the earth for construction.
February 2026 – Construction commences
Mid-March 2026 – Plantings commence
May 2026 – Play equipment installation
July 2026 – New playground re-opens.
The works will cost approximately $850,000.
Learn about the consultation process
The draft Concept Design was developed using feedback we received from the Golden Square Masterplan consultation in 2021, where there was strong support to upgrade the existing playground. In July and August 2024, we sought feedback from the community to understand if they supported the key features in the draft Concept Design.
At the Council Meeting on Tuesday 13 May 2025, Council approved the Final Concept Design for upgrading the playground and landscaping at Golden Square Bicentennial Park in Burnley.