User:Helencll/sandbox

. Como Pleasure Grounds is an historic parkland with walking paths and picnic grounds located at the end of Cremona Road in Como, New South Wales. It was originally part of an Estate once owned by Sutherland Shire pioneer, Thomas Holt. Established in about 1886 the pleasure grounds followed a trend of outdoor public areas or pleasure gardens set aside for people of Victorian Sydney to both promenade and picnic. =History= The historical development of the site was due primarily to the development of the rail line to Como in 1885. =Who established it?= James Murphy who had purchased land and built a house at Como, built a promenade around a nearby rocky promontory which formed part of the Georges River. He installed swings, summer houses and picnic shelters to encourage day visitors. A boatshed was also established by James Murphy and was managed by his brother John. A shop was located directly behind the shed and at the entrance to the grounds which provided refreshments. The popularity of the beach and the advent of the motor car meant that the pleasure ground competed with other sources of recreation. By 1940 the Sutherland Shire Council purchased the Como Pleasure Grounds as it had become run down and in need of refurbishment. =Restoration of the Grounds= In 2002 a conservation management plan was commissioned in order that history of the Como Pleasure grounds was reinterpreted in a way that would enhance the heritage values of the site. In 2004 the Como Pleasure Grounds were officially reopened. It marked the completion of the first stages of a jointly State government and Sutherland Shire Project to rehabilitate and restore the historic grounds. Significance The only officially named pleasure ground in NSW ensures the Como Pleasure Grounds is still relevant and of value to both the local and wider community. The sandstone steps still lead the visitor to the rocky knoll and the shop still serves as a place for refreshments and meals.