Armidale Regional Council received a $999,700 State Government grant for the project in September last year. Mr Marshall said he'd been assured by council that by the end of 2020 Armidale would have a children's playground that towns across the region would envy.

"Whether it's a pirate ship or princess's castle, over the next 12 months we are going to see Curtis Park transformed into a children's wonderland where the only limits are a child's imagination," Mr Marshall said.

Curtis Park is located on Dumaresq Creek, joins Armidale Visitor Information Centre, and is walking distance to the city's CBD - making it the perfect place for a project of this kind, Cr Murray said.

Council has erected fences around a new amenities area, and is installing electricity, water and sewerage services in preparation for construction to begin in March.

This week council will call for quotes to design and build the playground. Submissions close at the end of January.

Mr Marshall expected the public would have its first glimpse of equipment at the park by by February. Early suggestions are it will include colourful climbing structures, swings, and even a flying fox.

"This is a great opportunity for Armidale to grow its reputation as a city which embraces families and provides accessible facilities for people of all abilities," Mr Marshall said.

Cr Murray said other communities across the region had seen the economic benefits which flow from having a quality children's playground.

"Wherever large scale playgrounds are built, foot traffic follows, and I think with our planned location in the middle of town, we will see an increased flow of people into the mall and into businesses.

"The super playground will be a fantastic asset for our community, which will keep our kids active - physically and mentally - and encourage families to spend valuable time together."