GRANT District Council has unveiled the $700,000 second stage of the Port MacDonnell foreshore redevelopment, which includes a creative playspace, fitness park, redeveloped town entrance and general landscaping.
The $1.8m Waterfront project aims to revitalise the foreshore along Sea Parade by providing an integrated community space.
With stage one already completed, stage two is now open for community comment.
Following feedback flowing from the community, a number of historical fishing industry items located at the current playground site will be relocated near the boat ramp precinct so the town’s “history will not be lost”.
A working party meeting was held at the township late last week to discuss the need to retain these historical items, including the bus shelters.
Deputy mayor Gill Clayfield – who is a resident of the seaside township – said the development would be a significant attraction for both local residents and visitors.
“We are very excited to be releasing the concept plans for community consultation,” Cr Clayfield said.
“Council will ensure all of the requirements of the community will be met.”
While the proposed project had already generated some discussion, she reassured the community this playspace included water play, a trampoline, slides and swings as well as nature-based play.
She said council had listened to the feedback from the community and historical items would be kept and relocated at a vacant piece of land near the boat ramp, which would include a memorial wall commemorating fishers who had died at sea.
“These historical items include the anchor, tall wheel and winch – this history will not be lost,” Cr Clayfield said.
“We have certainly taken on board the community’s feelings.”
She said the plans now also included the restoration and repainting of the bus shelters.
Cr Clayfield called on people to have their say on the plan during the public consultation stage, which will run until November 15.
The playground design was developed by Allendale East Area School students as part of their maths and science classes.
The proposed playspace includes a trail connection to the beach, Liberty swing, informal forest walk and balancing logs, swings and in-ground trampoline and wooden carved animals.
Other features include boat and rope play, indigenous edible garden as well as sand and water play.
The concept also moots the development of the Standish Street foreshore entry node that includes paving, signage and artwork as well as feature planters.
A fitness park is also envisaged on vacant land adjacent Tenterden Reserve.
Community members can register and complete the survey online at yoursaydcg.com.au.
Hard copies are also available at the Port MacDonnell Community Complex as well as the Commercial Street West Office.
Council will also hold a drop-in session at the Port MacDonnell Community Complex on Thursday, November 7 from 10am to 2pm.
