A VISION to turn the largely under-utilised Boomerang Park into a community showpiece was unveiled by Port Stephens Mayor Bruce MacKenzie this week.
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"The benefits to the people of Raymond Terrace are unprecedented ... I can guarantee that every dollar from the sale of land [if it goes ahead] will be spent on Boomerang Park," he said.
The site is expected to fetch between $2 million and $2.5 million.
Cr MacKenzie said all proceeds from a sale would be used to enhance the park and make it accessible and available to all residents.
"New facilities would include community gardens, Men's Shed, croquet courts, amenities building, playground precinct with picnic and barbecue facilities, pathway trail with fitness stations and a skate park.
"Plans also include an upgrade of the pond with deck, planting and seating areas and refurbishment and extension of the existing senior citizens centre."
Cr MacKenzie said he also proposed to erect a memorial for those WWI soldiers who rode into Boomerang Park at the end of the war to be met by residents.
He said that the land earmarked for a seniors housing development represented about one-fifth of the entire park site.
"We are talking about affordable seniors living on a small, unused section of the park located close to shops, medical facilities, public transport and recreational facilities such as the bowls club and golf course.
"I am sure the silent majority will welcome this development," he said.
In response to media reports that the Boomerang Park master plan would be the major issue at the 2016 council elections, Cr MacKenzie said in 40 years of local government he had never made a decision with a looming election in mind.