Wingham’s town centre beautification and upgrades to local parks and sporting facilities are pushing forward thanks to funding from the NSW Nationals in the federal government of almost $15 million for MidCoast community projects.
MidCoast Council has this week approved the updated Wingham CBD Streetscape Concept Plan, with $1 million in Federal funding delivering early upgrades to the town centre, including a cantilevered shade sail now completed over the McCullagh Lane carpark.
Federal Nationals Member for Lyne, Dr David Gillespie, also announced Federal funding for other Wingham upgrades:
- $100,000 for Wingham Riverside Reserve – to include BBQ, picnic tables and public toilets, as part of upgrades following damage to the area in the 2021 floods. Work due to commence in May 2022.
- $20,000 for Tinonee’s Horace Dean Memorial Park – including creation of an Indigenous sculpture by local elder Russell Saunders and wheelchair accessibility.
- $400,000 for Wingham Sporting Complex grandstand roof (previously announced).
Dr Gillespie said the Wingham and Tinonee improvements were part of a strong Federal Nationals commitment to supporting the MidCoast.
‘Under the first three rounds of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program, we are committing $14.905-million, almost $15-million, for MidCoast communities. This is a tremendous investment in our local centres and part of a broader plan to develop the Manning Great Lakes as a regional capital,” Dr Gillespie said.
“It’s great to see Council has approved updated concept plans for the Wingham CBD at this week’s meeting. I know the local community is keen to see the beautification and parking improvements underway as soon as possible,” he said.
Wingham Chamber of Commerce spokesperson Liz Jarvis said it was pleasing to see more people using the newly-shaded carpark.
“They enjoy the walk along the new footpath beside the fun mural and are exploring the shops more as well. It’s a win-win because everyone who parks there, frees up the street parking for our elderly,” Ms Jarvis said.
