COFFS Harbour is set to benefit from over $5 million in funding for a range of local improvement projects for Crown land reserves and community facilities in our region.

Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh announced the funding at the showgrounds on Monday morning.

“It’s fantastic to report $5,005,100 has been secured for local projects this year under the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund program to maintain and upgrade reserves as well as facilities located on them,” Mr Singh said.

The amount is about ten percent of the $51.7 million of the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund provided by the State Government this year.

$4,000,000 has been allocated to demolish the existing grandstand and construct a new one, including new amenities and kiosk at Coffs Harbour Showground.

Showground Manager Steve Sullivan said, “The existing grandstand is at least 50 years old and doesn’t meet safety regulations and can only accommodate around 400 people.

“The new grandstand will have a capacity of over 1200 in greater comfort, as well as providing toilets and a kiosk.

“We have been working towards this project over the last five years and are extremely grateful to the State Government for this funding.”

Once completed, the showgrounds management are hoping to attract new and larger events including open air concerts and performances.

Other local projects being funded are-

● $597,300 to construct a replacement glasshouse at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden.
● $250,000 to renovate and upgrade the community hall with the addition of an amenities block and installation of a kitchen at Sawtell Reserve and Holiday Park.
● $86,075 to remediate the foreshore area of Boambee Reserve.
● $39,725 to upgrade the road and path access and paving at Corindi Recreation Reserve.
● $32,000 to replace and repair walkways from the reserve area to the beach and headland at Red Rock Holiday Park.

 

By David TUNE