<< Peninsula New 12 March 2007 - Community groups back precinct playground >>

Community groups back precinct playground

Peninsula community groups are behind a Gosford Council plan to build a large "precinct" playground at Umina Beach, according to Peninsula Families Action Group president Ms Sarah Tolmie.

Ms Tolmie said the action group had hosted a forum where community groups discussed what they would like to see in the recreation space and what issues such a proposed development raised.

It is understood that the option of not proceeding with a precinct park was not discussed, on the grounds that the forum was convened to find ways to proceed with the project.

However, environmental concerns were raised by some representatives, with the protection of existing native trees and bush suggested as a high priority.

"Key areas of concern were damage and antisocial behaviour," said Ms Tolmie.

"Attendees agreed that if the park was a well-planned development providing accessibility and interest to all members of the community, then the space would be well used and people would take pride in the park."

She said the local groups believed that the Peninsula community was well equipped to take ownership of a large precinct park at Umina Beach, should the proposed development by Gosford Council go ahead.

Ideas for the park next to Umina Oval were presented by landscape architect for Gosford Council, Mr Terry Arnold.

Shade, creative landscaping and enough barbeque and picnic areas were suggested as priorities for any development, as well as a fenced area for preschoolers, use of the natural bush, toilets, bike paths and equipment for all ages.

Using the area at night was also discussed, with the suggestion of night markets and an amphitheatre for creative arts performances.

"It is hoped that families would be encouraged to use the space at all times of the day and that the development would link in with existing areas such as the skateboard park and BMX track, as well as linking to the Umina Beach Surf Life Saving Club and its proposed café," Ms Tolmie said.

Attendees included representatives from the PCYC, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, Club Umina, Umina Surf Life Saving Club, Woy Woy Sea Scouts and Gosford Crime Prevention Unit.

Liberal candidate Cr Chris Holstein and Independent candidate Ms Debra Wales also attended.

"We are really excited by the results of this meeting," said Ms Tolmie.

"It was well attended and the reaction of the community representatives was positive and encouraging, with offers of support coming from various groups within the local area.

"The Peninsula needs a large scale park to support not only the growing number of young families in the area but also the wider community as a whole.

"The results of this forum prove how ready the community is to come on board with such a project."

The group will be holding a community fun day on site on May 12 to launch the project and provide an opportunity for local people to express their views about the development.

For further information, telephone 4343 1929.

Media release, 8 March 2007 Jenni Darwin, Peninsula Families Action Group