LEMON Tree Passage is rapidly becoming a preferred destination for people with disabilities and their carers.

There is a reason for this and it can all be put down to a key which is available from Port Stephens Council.

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You see, disabled toilets and change facilities are essential for those with a disability and Henderson Park boasts one such section in the main amenities block.

It is within a short distance of a picnic shelter with a free electric BBQ, a pool and a picturesque waterfront park.

There is also disability parking.

Access to the facility is via the MLAC (Master Locksmith Access Key) and it is available from council.

There are two types.

The second version gives access to gated parks and reserves. They are also available from locksmiths and can’t be copied.

What’s more, they are standard for facilities nationwide.

Councillor Steve Tucker said that the makeover of waterfront parks and reserves had attracted huge numbers of tourists and day trippers.

“The upgraded amenities and play equipment in Tanilba, Mallabula and LTP have been a great drawcard and we (the council) will be continuing to expand facilities on offer to the public,” he said.

“As funds become available we will be looking at replacing boat ramps at Tanilba, Mallabula and Beach Rd, Lemon Tree Passage. “Also, we need to get rid of the gate blocking access to the wharf at the end of Mallabula Rd.

“The gravel road needs to be sealed and more user-friendly parking installed at the bottom of the hill,” he added.

“Council is very keen to seal all of the little ‘dead ends’ as it costs a lot of money to transport graders and rollers for such small jobs,” he stated.

“We have already sealed the turn-arounds at Beach Rd and Caswell Crescent.

“This leaves just a few more and the job will be complete,” he said.

“When school resumes, a wide walkway will be constructed along the entire length of the Lemon Tree waterfront from the big car park to Rudd Reserve.

“It will have shaded seats beside it and probably some static exercise equipment installed as well.

“Most of this work will dovetail well with Council’s participation in the NSW State Coastal Management Plan,” he added.

“I have just inspected the final stages of the Tanilba Road rebuild with project supervisor Chris Awilla.

“His main problem was to de-water sections for drainage as the water table was very high.

“This as well as the rotten weather were the main reasons for the delay,” he suggested.

By Geoff WALKER