TWO locations are on the table for Laurieton’s proposed Regional Play Space and both are set to impact the Riverwalk Markets.
The largest area is on the McLennan Street end of Bruce Porter Reserve, while a smaller space has been identified on Short Street.
Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce is urging residents to go to the Have Your Say section of the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council website and register their preferred option before the consultation period ends on 12 September.
President Luke Hadfield said the Chamber is supportive of the project but recognises the importance of delivering it in a way that balances the needs of the community, local residents and existing events.
“This is a significant infrastructure investment for our region and it will add to the useability of the space at Bruce Porter Reserve, even enhancing the market experience for many users.
“We respect that not every local resident will share our view, but as custodians of the markets, which have been operating for decades, we have a duty and right to ensure their future viability.
The new play space is the result of a $302,250 grant from the State Government’s Local Small Commitments Allocation Grant Program.
Laurie Street was initially identified as a potential location, however the site was deemed inappropriate due to its Aboriginal and European historical significance.
The design cannot be completed until the final location is confirmed, however it will feature a double flying fox, trampoline, double slide, double bay swing and nest seat, animal rocker, xylophone, balance and climbing obstacles and picnic tables.
Mr Hadfield and market coordinator David Shorter recently met residents of McLennan Street to discuss their concerns.
The group expressed unanimous support for the project but identified a clear preference for the Short Street location.
Their reasons were: improved safety, established parking, closer to the amenities block and less impact on the markets, established residences, local fauna and ground water accumulation.
“The Laurieton Riverwalk Markets are going to be affected by this project, that is an unfortunate reality,” Mr Hadfield said.
“The Chamber of Commerce’s primary source of revenue is the markets and while there will still be space leftover, it’s whether it’s enough space to draw enough revenue to make running them worth it.”
“With no markets, there could be no Chamber.”
The Chamber has been in contact with Council’s Community Engagement Officer and believes there is a genuine commitment to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome, however it comes down to strong and widespread community input.
“We need the community to make submissions to Council. The more feedback there is, the stronger the case for a location that delivers the best outcome for everyone.”
Thoughts can be shared via Council’s online survey, by dropping a pin on a digital map, by emailing council at council@pmhc.nsw.gov.au by writing to:
CEO Port Macquarie Hastings Council
PO Box 84
Port Macquarie NSW 2444.
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
