Three Cessnock projects, including one at the Maybury Peace Park, will receive more than $600,000 in total, courtesy of the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.

A $200,000 grant was awarded to the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) to spend on an accessible entrance, adjacent to Aberdare Road, which forms part of a larger refurbishment development to provide new creative arts spaces at the venue.

The Manning Park Leash Free Dog Area pocketed $140,000 to fence the existing off-leash zone, install landscaping and support infrastructure that will include access to water, seating and bins.

The big winner, however, was the Maybury Peace Park Play Space Upgrade, which garnered $300,000.

The venture will incorporate inclusive play items and provide a unique play experience for the community.

Cessnock United Football Club was also successful in its grant application of $294,750 for a lighting upgrade at Baddeley Park.

Cessnock City Council is partnering with the organisation to project manage and deliver the development.

Mayor Jay Suvaal was thrilled to receive such a hefty windfall, which will benefit all residents – young and old.

“The funding announcements are great for the Cessnock local government area (LGA),” he said.

“The accessible entrance at the CPAC and inclusive play space at Maybury Peace Park were part of council’s commitment to create community facilities for everyone.

“So, this is wonderful news for so many in our community – those who love the arts, people with disability, dog owners, families and users of Baddeley Park.

“I look forward to seeing these fantastic projects get underway.”

The NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund has provided $500 million for more than 1,900 local projects since 2017.

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