Huge boost for ‘jewel in the crown’ – Brelsford Park

Joint media release by Pat Conaghan MP, Gurmesh Singh MP and Coffs Harbour Mayor Cr Denise Knight

Coffs Harbour’s ‘jewel in the crown’, Brelsford Park, will be transformed into a lively and inclusive place where community well-being, culture and leisure come to life.

Federal Member for Cowper, Pat Conaghan, State MP for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh and Coffs Harbour City Council Mayor Councillor Denise Knight have announced almost $5 million will be injected into Brelsford Park under the Federal and NSW government’s Bushfire Local Economic Recovery program.

Mr Conaghan said 195 bushfire recovery projects across NSW have been approved in this round of projects under the program.

“Projects include upgrades to facilities and the enhancements to community space,” he said.

“These projects have a focus on drawing people to the region, enhancing economic and social recovery, to create jobs and improve community resilience for future emergency events.

“Importantly, all projects have been put forward by the community with funding focused on local solutions to local needs,” he said.

“The $4,997,620 for Brelsford Park will also create opportunities to increase tourism, employment and economic recovery as well as building community cohesion.”

Mr Singh said we’re fortunate to have a special place like Brelsford Park at the heart of our city.

“New life is about to be breathed into this important precinct next to Coffs Harbour’s CBD thanks to this substantial funding boost from the NSW and Federal governments,” Mr Singh said.

“Coffs Harbour City Council’s plans will reinvigorate Brelsford Park for the enjoyment of our entire community. It will be a place where everyone feels welcome.”

Cr Knight said: “Brelsford Park has the potential to become one of our city’s most popular attractions. It is a much-loved feature of our city and the Skate Park and Inclusive Playground have become incredibly popular in recent years. But this important green space has become neglected over the years.

“This funding and Council’s Masterplan lays a foundation for the area to be transformed into a City Park for the whole community, visitors and wider region – and one that will also enhance community wellbeing, culture and leisure opportunities.”

Brelsford Park is the main public park and green focal point of the Coffs Harbour City Centre. The master plan will connect the parkland to the City Centre with tree-lined pathways for both pedestrians and cyclists.

The project also involves the creation of a small stage, an amphitheatre, a village green, a paved area, and power outlets. It also includes picnic facilities, public amenities and a kiosk.

These projects are the latest to be announced as part of a joint investment of more than $500 million in Local Economic Recovery, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments to support locally led bushfire recovery initiatives.

Details of successful local economic recovery projects in New South Wales – and across other states – are available on the National Recovery and Resilience Agency website at http://www.recovery.gov.au/our-community/local-bushfire-recovery-projects

Pictured above at the announcement with Gurmesh Singh and Pat Conaghan is Deputy Mayor, Councillor George Cecato.