FOLLOWING the completion of the popular new playground at Woolgoolga Beach Reserve, work is now continuing on additional new features at the reserve to transform it into an attractive and welcoming public space which enhances Woolgoolga’s relaxed seaside character.

Coffs Harbour City Council Sustainable Infrastructure Director Mick Raby said the new playground at the reserve has received rave reviews from visitors of all ages.

“The upgrade as a whole is a very exciting project and the reserve is an important landmark, attracting visitors and locals to Woolgoolga and contributing hugely to the local economy, so it’s very good to have such a positive response so far,” Mr Raby said.

As part of the upgrade works, the informal parking area for the former Woolgoolga Surf Lifesaving Club building was fenced off on Monday 1 February.

Visitors to the area can still park in the adjacent public parking area in Hofmeier Close.

The closure of the informal parking area relates to the demolition of the old Woolgoolga Surf Lifesaving Club building, which the Club’s contractors started pulling down on 1 February.

The demolition, which includes the removal of asbestos by specialist contractors, will take around three weeks to complete.

Following the building’s demolition, the area will be graded and turfed to create an open community lawn area.

Under the Masterplan for the reserve, the carpark area will eventually be renewed to include formalised spaces including designated spaces for people with disabilities.

A turning area is also part of the design to improve traffic flow, as well as a bike path for safe and easy cycling access to the beach and reserve.

Lifesavers will use a portable observation post until funds are available to construct a planned covered viewing deck, which will also be available for use by the general public.

Council’s current Woolgoolga Beach Reserve Masterplan contains concept designs created from the community consultation previously undertaken in the development of the Masterplan.

The Masterplan includes lawns with shade trees, paths and beach access points for people of all abilities and space for temporary events, leisure activities and play.

Once funding becomes available, the community will be given the opportunity to help further develop the final design for the northern end of the reserve.

To view the current Woolgoolga Beach Reserve Masterplan visit Council’s website at www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au.

 

By Emma DARBIN