Council is currently looking at the upgrade of the Hasting Point Park adjacent to Cudgera Creek as part of a shire-wide park renewal program.
The proposal has the support of the Hastings Point Progress Association, who initially had some concerns that an upgrade may detract from the natural beauty of the creekside park, which is loved by locals and visitors alike.
The Association’s Secretary, Julie Boyd, said after meetings with Council officers, the residents’ group was comfortable with what Council had planned for the site.
“We’re happy with the initial concept and look forward to the next stage of the plan,” Ms Boyd said.
The proposed works would replace the existing shelters with new shelters and picnic settings with wheelchair-accessible tables and platform seats throughout the park.
To encourage safe pedestrian walking through the park, a new footpath is proposed to link the crossover just south of the bridge into and up through the park to the existing toilet block. The pathway would encourage a wider user group to access the park, including parents with prams, wheelchairs and walkers.
Additional coastal trees would also be planted to provide more natural shade and also add to the already heavily-planted park.
A small deck has also been incorporated around the base of an existing tree, creating a shaded vantage point from which to look out towards the creek mouth. Local stone would be used to create small feature walls as informal seating and to retain the deck.
New play equipment has also been incorporated into the design to add greater diversity to the already existing swing set and slide, encouraging a wider age group to engage in play.
Other furniture items to be replaced include a new barbecue and shelter, new bins throughout the park, outdoor showers, drinking fountain and lockable bike racks.
Council’s Recreation Services Manager Stewart Brawley said the upgrade was designed to complement the existing natural features of the park and not compete with the views or relaxed location and creek accessibility.
“The upgrade would encourage a wider user group through accessible pathways and new infrastructure to serve the community well for at least another 20 years,” Mr Brawley said.
The proposal is currently on exhibition for public comment. To view the plans, visit Council’s website www.tweed.nsw.gov.au and click on ‘On Exhibition’. A ‘fly-through’ of the proposed upgrade is available on this website.Hard copies of the documents and plans are also available at Council offices at Murwillumbah and Tweed Heads and at the Kingscliff Library.
