Victoria’s Moyne Shire Council has hit pause on the removal of a playground at Macarthur’s Market Square pending further funding for a revitalisation of the recreation ground.
Council says stage one of works to upgrade the precinct, which included the removal of the existing playground, were anticipated to begin next week.
A new playspace and multi-use court are set to be installed in a different area of the reserve in further stages. All works being carried out are part of the Precinct Plan developed with the community in 2019, Council said.
It said grant funding applications are currently under consideration for the redevelopment.
Mayor, Ian Smith said Council was “very confident” of securing funding to complete the project.
He said the investment would fund a new playspace, as well as other works considered as stage two.
“We have altered the works plan and the removal of the playground will be paused for the time being – pending further announcements,” he said.
“This is an exciting project for Macarthur and will represent one of the biggest capital works
spends in the town in recent memory and will create a vibrant community space.
“The new space will significantly improve access and use of recreation and play activities for more ages and for all abilities, something that the current precinct does not provide.
“This project is one of a range of major capital works programs Council and our contractors are completing across the Shire this construction season. We have tight timelines to meet and are relying on the availability of contractors and our own teams.
“In order to complete stage one works and to meet funding obligations, the playground will have to be removed, but we hope to have a clearer picture on the installation of the new playspace soon.”
Mayor Smith said other civil works within the reserve would begin as planned next week.
