Firefighters and Maryanne Stuart at the site, which wraps around KFC at the intersection of Railway Parade (Princes Highway) and Old Princes Highway. Picture Facebook

A site has been chosen for a new fire station at Engadine, which will replace the present facility that was built in 1966.

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The state government has purchased two vacant blocks that wrap around KFC at the intersection of Railway Parade (Princes Highway) and Old Princes Highway.

The site is said to provide "strategically placed capabilities for the area".

The Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib and Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell made the announcement with Heathcote MP Maryanne Stuart, who promised a station upgrade at the last election.

Consultation will take place with local fire crews to plan the new station.

No date has been given for when the facility will be completed.

Artist's impression of the new playground. Picture supplied

PLAYGROUND WORK TO BEGIN

Construction will start this month on the new $1 million paddle steamer themed playground in Como Pleasure Grounds.

The Sutherland Shire Council facility will replace the present playground and cater for children of all ages and abilities, with inclusive and accessible play elements.

The council said the project would include improved walking paths within the playground area, upgraded picnic and seating areas, a water bottle filling station, new garden beds and enhanced landscaping.

The existing playground will be closed until the new playground is complete in August 2026.

The project areas will be fenced off, but the remainder of Como Pleasure Grounds and its facilities, including the public toilets, cafe, pool and foreshore pathway will remain open during construction.

There may be increased construction traffic during deliveries. A work zone will be in place during construction and pedestrian traffic may be diverted during deliveries.

The paddle steamer theme was inspired by the area's local history.

In the 1880s, paddle wheel ferries began operating from Como after the railway line was extended in 1885.

They carried day trippers from Sans Souci and Como to picnic spots further up the river.

Mayor Jack Boyd said the design would complement the park's unique character and local history while improving accessibility, play opportunities and supporting facilities.

Quad bike-style vehicles being used for the survey. Picture supplied

FOOTPATHS SURVEY

Sutherland Shire Council has begun a four-week operation of surveying more than 750 kilometres of footpaths to guide improvements in safety, accessibility and connectivity.

A council spokeswoman said clearly marked, quad bike-style vehicles were being driven at walking pace along footpaths to assess surface condition.

"All vehicles are operated by certified inspectors and are focused solely on footpath infrastructure," she said.

"No images of homes, businesses or private property will be captured as part of this work.

"This program of work will help Council prioritise maintenance and upgrade works, contributing to safer and more connected neighbourhoods."