Phase one of the Lismore community's long-term vision for a transformed Wade Park has been realised, with Lismore Councillor Gianpiero Battista and State Member for Lismore The Hon Janelle Saffin MP on hand to officially open the park's new accessible amenities block. Wade Park is located on the corner of Military Road and Ann Street in East Lismore, and has long been a drawcard for young families, pet owners and nearby residents. Creation of this much-needed public asset was jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments, under the Public Amenities Resilience Upgrades program, at a cost of $520,000. Bookended by two sheltered picnic areas, the elevated amenities block comprises ten unisex toilets, including ambulant and wheelchair accessible cubicles, and is now better located for access to the playground facilities. The new space is a key element of the wider Wade Park Masterplan, which has been developed through extensive community consultation and lists priorities such as BBQ facilities, sensory play areas, multi-purpose sports courts and a designated fenced dog exercise area. Councillor Battistasaid: "It's great to see this first piece of the Wade Park Masterplan completed. I know it's something the community has been wanting for a long time and look forward to helping see it to fruition". Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin echoes the sentiment, describing the new amenities block as a significant upgrade designed with families and parkgoers in mind. "It is so important to have toilet facilities near the play areas, so parents or grandparents don't have to trek to the end of the park with all their children when just one wants to go to the toilet," Ms Saffin said. "With the new facilities this all-weather space is destined to be a popular meeting point for birthday parties, play dates and other social gatherings. I'm proud to open this for the community, on behalf of the NSW Government." Council is working hard to secure more grant funding to deliver the Wade Park Masterplan. The completed amenity is part of Lismore City Council's broader effort to maintain and improve public amenities. Twenty-three public toilet upgrades are planned across the LGA, which are currently underway, ensuring access to clean and comfortable public amenities at local parks and rest stops for our residents and visitors. |
