Progress Park to get a new look

Published on 04 March 2014

Progress Park, in Newbridge, is in line for a facelift, thanks to a $10,000 allocation from Loddon Shire Council.

Concept plans have been produced to trigger a clean-up and beautification of the area and these will be the subject of community discussions over the next few weeks.

The plans include establishing native grassland to complement the existing river red gums, planting native trees, a possible art installation, a new loop walk and an upgrade for the park’s furniture.

It’s also suggested that the recently created garden beds at the southern end of the park could host a dedicated collection of native grasses and shrubs, centred around a variety of emu bushes.

Manager Community Planning Tim Jenkyn said this week the plans were focusing on local passive recreation as well as the needs of visitors.

“It’s a bit of a ‘no man’s land’ at the moment, so we’d like to help with work on its appearance,” Mr Jenkyn said.

“We’re really looking to create a foundation for local residents to do some further thinking and planning for the future.”

Chairman of the Newbridge Community Planning Committee Hedley Price said the proposed changes were part of the town’s Community Plan, developed about 10 years ago, and were earmarked back then.

“We’ve already had some work done just below the hall and some opposite the hotel, but the rest of the area is a bit neglected,” Mr Price said.

“We just want to tidy it all up. If we got approval, we’d like to put a path under the bridge to link the two areas together.

“The funding has come through the Community Plan and concept plans have gone on display at the hall and general store.  It’s pretty straightforward, really, but it all costs money.

“It will be a really good thing – we have done that little bit of beautification already, but to do more would be great.”

For further information on what’s planned, please phone Tim Jenkyn on 5494 1200 or email tjenkyn@loddon.vic.gov.au