Helensburgh's Town Centre will be given a boost after Wollongong City Council received a $1.6 million grant for its revitalisation from the NSW Government.
The money, from the NSW Government's Restart NSW - Resources for Regions fund, will support projects that deliver economic growth in mining-affected communities.
Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM thanked the NSW government for the grant.
"Our successful application included a suite of current and future projects for the town centre," Cr Bradbery said.
These projects include:
- upgrade of the Rex Jackson Oval car park
- resurfacing of the Charles Harper Park car park
- replacement of the playground at Charles Harper Park
- streetscape upgrades on Parkes and Walker Streets
- improvements to pedestrian crossing facilities on Parkes Street near the Walker Street intersection
- construction of the Lilyvale/Walker Streets roundabout.
Council will contribute $1.36 million from its capital works budget for the projects, and Helensburgh's Metropolitan Coal (Peabody) will contribute a further $180,000.
"All up, more than $3 million dollars will be spent on projects in Helensburgh," Cr Bradbery said. "This is terrific news as we have been consulting with the community on the Helensburgh Town Plan. This consultation will help inform the detail for these projects."
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro congratulated Wollongong City Council on its funding win and thanked them for its commitment to road safety and improving the Helensburgh CBD.
"As well as improving safety on its streets, this funding will revitalise the Helensburgh CBD with amenities and infrastructure that will make everyday life much brighter and more convenient," Mr Barilaro said.
"Mining makes a significant contribution to the NSW economy, supporting more than 100,000 jobs, but the benefits it brings can place extra pressure on infrastructure, such as wear and tear on roads."
Member for Heathcote Lee Evans said: "Helensburgh residents have long discussed with me the need for upgrades to their local facilities. I am pleased Wollongong City Council has chosen to contribute to the State Government's funding. I know the Helensburgh community will appreciate their fair share of infrastructure."
