The benefits of community parks contribute to a town’s identity and the health and wellness of members within the town.

Coonabarabran has multiple parks and recreational spaces, including the skatepark, netball courts and the newly-installed disability access “Stop and Play” park.

The maintenance of these spaces is overseen by Warrumbungle Shire Council, which has confirmed the proposal of multiple upgrades throughout Coonabarabran.

Upgrades to David Bell Park, in Robertson Street, have been proposed under the shire-wide Playgrounds Upgrade Program, as well as the construction of a dog park at the eastern end of Neilson Park.

Warrumbungle Shire mayor, councillor Ambrose Doolan said both projects were funded by the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, with works set to commence in the next financial year.

“David Bell Park will receive an upgrade. The scope of works includes upgrades to play equipment, safety surfacing, picnic furniture, fencing and pathways,” Cr Doolan said.

“Creation of a dog park at the eastern end of Neilson Park is planned through the installation of fencing, water points, signage and other ancillary items, such as shade trees.

“Delivery of these upgrade projects will meet the Warrumbungle community’s desire to be a healthy and active community, supported by sport and recreational infrastructure.”

Maintenance

However, some community members have questioned if recreational needs are being met for older children and teenagers.

Maintenance of the skatepark and netball courts has also raised concern, after holes in the surface areas were repaired with bitumen.

Dr Claudia Thalman and her son are avid users of the skate park. She said she was taken aback by risks posed to users of both the skatepark and netball courts, as she felt bitumen was not a safe surface to fall on.

She said more attention to recreational facilities, nearest to the Sport and Recreation Centre (Youth Club), could be beneficial for the community.

“Skating and riding scooters pushes both physical and mental boundaries and are ideal activities for personal development, whilst hanging out with friends,” Dr Thalman said.

“Building a new skatepark accessible for all skill levels would provide kids and teenagers with a fun and safe space to exist in.

“Sport grounds can be a hub for older kids and I feel focusing on what the kids desire would revamp the youth life.”

Concerns have also been raised over the play equipment at Neilson Park, including the height of the slide and flying fox.

Cr Doolan said while Council endeavoured to meet community requirements through projects and upgrades, challenges often arised.

“We are challenged by sparse resources, a large geographically- isolated area, and an ageing population,” Cr Doolan said.

“Our community needs access to cultural, community, sporting and recreational facilities and inclusive services that cater to all residents.

“Projects such as open space and playground upgrades will boost the wellbeing of local communities because access is important for socialising, recreating, celebrating and connecting.”

PHOTO: Keen skater, Dr Claudia Thalman, is an avid user of Coonabarabran Skatepark.