The park is currently undergoing a $70,000 facelift, with work to continue in the coming weeks. 

The upgrade involves: 

The project has been identified as one of the works part of the Kempsey Bypass Corridor Master Plan. 

Kempsey Shire Council’s manager of technical and civic services, Trevor Dickson says plans to reuse and re-purpose existing parts of the park will allow for a substantial improvement within council’s budget.

“Previously, the layout of the park was focused on being near the (old) Pacific Highway with the edges fenced off and heavily planted with trees,” Mr Dickson said. 

“By relocating the barbecue shelter, reusing parts of the playground and refurbishing the existing seating and benches we will be able to achieve a big improvement for this important gateway park.”

Over the coming weeks the slides and other minor components of the existing playground will be recycled and incorporated into a new children’s playground, located closer to the museum and art gallery.

A new path will also link the museum, relocated barbecue shelter and public toilets in order to improve access and use.

The park, along with the museum and Visitor Information Centre will remain open during the refurbishment works.

Council advises that there may be minor disruptions to traffic and access within the park over the next fortnight as existing park facilities are rearranged and updated. Traffic control will be in place for any work that impacts the roadway. 

The park revamp is due to be completed by November 2016, weather permitting. 

Agriculture workshop

Leading agribusiness consultant and author of the Macleay Valley Food Bowl Agribusiness Investment Guide, Dr Doris Blaessing will be guest speaker at a free public workshop on Friday, August 19 at Kempsey Shire Council.

The workshop will be held in the committee room of council’s main administration building from 1pm to 3pm.