Cessnock is one of the big winners to share in more than $21 million to revitalise town precincts across regional NSW.
The area known as the “Coalfields” will receive $14 million, while three other locations – including Mudgee, Bathurst and Cobar – are set to benefit from the remainder of the amount.
They’re being funded through the Australian Government’s regional Precincts and Partnership Program, which provides investment to invigorate rural places.
Cessnock will spend the money to rejuvenate the underutilised Apex Park into a thriving zone, connecting businesses, community groups, service providers and the Cessnock Pool recreation area.
It’ll transform it for locals and visitors alike, shaping the future of the town and strengthening its role as a tourism gateway to the Hunter Valley, according to Dan Repacholi.
“This investment is a game-changer for Cessnock, ensuring our region continues to grow,” the Hunter MP said.
“My community has been asking for these improvements.
“So, I’m proud to deliver real outcomes that will make a lasting difference.
“The Albanese government is committed to supporting regional NSW… and this funding will help build a stronger, more connected future for Cessnock and beyond.”
Cessnock City mayor Dan Watton was equally-thrilled.
“So much work has gone into this… behind the scenes,” he said.
“From Dan (Repacholi) to the council staff, especially Tony Chadwick.
“I want to thank everyone for their efforts.
“I believe there was a very slim chance of getting this grant.
“But, due to Dan’s hard work and working collaboratively with council, we’ve achieved a fantastic outcome for the community.
“We’re going to see the whole area revitalised, the parking, EV parking, disabled toilets and the sandstone etc.”
Further west, $2 million will be invested into the Mid-Western Regional Council’s Mortimer Street Precinct to refresh the south-eastern section of the Mudgee CBD.
Bathurst Regional Council’s Connected Regional Neighbourhoods project is collecting $1.7 million to develop a comprehensive business case, masterplan and concept designs for the Bathurst CBD.
Cobar has secured almost $3.5 million to deliver the design and planning works for the council’s Grand Precinct, getting it up to construction and tender-ready status.
“The program is about revitalising underutilised spaces to enhance regional cities and towns – working collaboratively across government, community and with the private sector,” Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said.
“We’re keen to boost local economies by strengthening community infrastructure.”
For more news stories:
- Mining jobs, spending hit record highs in Hunter
- Upper Hunter council takes action to keep solar panels out of landfill
- Police working overtime to combat youth crime: Catley
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
