Work has started on the “much-needed” upgrade of Caswell Reserve in Mallabula.
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Port Stephens Council began sealing the existing gravel road in the popular park on Monday, kick-starting what is expected to be two months of works worth $300,000 which will include the installation of a new playground, public amenities, pathways and car park.
“Caswell Reserve is a beautiful part of Port Stephens and now it will have the recreation facilities to match,” Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer said.
“These much-needed upgrades will ensure that everyone can make the most of our surroundings, whether that’s playing outdoors with the kids, having a picnic, or getting out on the water.”
The upgrade is one of 12 central ward projects – and the only one for Mallabula – that was flagged for a start in the council’s 2018-2019 Capital Works Program.
Work began on December 3 and is due to finish in February.
To make the park and water easier for the public to access, the existing gravel road will be sealed from Fairlands Road to the boat ramp.
The reserve’s main entry and car park is expected to be closed until December 10 while this work is carried out.
New 2.2 metre wide shared pathway will be installed in the reserve to connect the all new playground and amenities block to the car park.
The playground will be located closer to the foreshore and the amenities relocated to the same side, near the barbecue shelters, to limit any potential conflicts between children and traffic.
A 1.2m wide bike path will also be installed around the playground, which has been funded through the council’s Capital Works Program.
Cr Palmer said the new playground will be installed early in December.
“This new playground will have something for kids of every age – swings, climbing equipment, a mini carousel, balancing ropes and natural play areas,” Cr Palmer said.
“Best of all, the playground will be finished in time for Christmas as our big present to the kids on the Tilligerry Peninsula.”
The new public amenities will include two unisex toilets and one accessible unisex toilet.
The existing playground and amenities block will be removed after the new ones are installed.
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