PORT MacDonnell’s revitalisation is set to continue amid a cash splash from the State Government for stage two of The Waterfront project
The major project is the second instalment in the refurbishment of the seaside town’s foreshore, which will include a new playground, fitness park and redeveloped town entrance at Standish Street.
The State Government will contribute $352,500 to the $700,000-plus project, which is a key Port MacDonnell Masterplan.
Grant District Council acting chief executive officer Jane Fetherstonhaugh said the local government body was delighted by the support received by the State Government through both stages of this prominent development.
“The key focus for stage two will be the redevelopment of the playground, as this will be a space offering a combination of adventure and nature play and include the Limestone Coast region’s first free water play space,” Ms Fetherstonhaugh said.
“Over the course of two years, council has worked with the Allendale East Area School on STEM projects relating to The Waterfront redevelopment.”
Year 8 students developed a playground design as part of their maths and science classes to contribute to the overall concept design development for stage two.
“These are local students who will access and use the area regularly and Council wanted to obtain input from young people in the district in a meaningful and innovative way,” Ms Fetherstonhaugh said.
She said stage two of The Waterfront was a project within the Port MacDonnell Masterplan blueprint, which ensured the project was compatible with existing and new infrastructure.
This strategy included parklands, foreshore space and open spaces around the area.
Council has also earmarked $60,000 this financial year to upgrade the bike path that weaves from Hammonds Drain to the marina by widening the path.
A top layer will also be added to make it smooth and more enjoyable to use.
Stage two has an 18 month timeframe and will be completed by December 2020.
Transforming the foreshore at Port MacDonnell, stage one of the project was officially opened in November.
Key features of stage one included a new boardwalk, refurbished toilet block, landscaping, information shelter and signage, drinking fountain, public art and a jetty plaza precinct.
The State Government Planning and Development Fund supports the provision of quality public open spaces, which can provide a range of activities and support safe, healthy connected communities.
