EVELYN.THORN@cluthaleader.co.nz
Stage one of the upgrade of Centennial Park playground is beginning to take shape.
The Clutha Parks Trust committee is in the middle of a five›year, $1 million›plus project to upgrade the Naish and Centennial Parks in Balclutha and continues to seek funding.
The first stage of the playground is costing between $800,000 and $900,000 to build.
Stage one features a lighthouse tower and slides, swing bank, spider climbing net, parkour fitness challenge area, an in›built trampoline and a Fonterra milk tanker.
Trust chairman Jared McPhee said the playground was due to be finished in approximately six to eight weeks and the trust was excited for its progression.
‘‘We won’t take a break between sorting out the first and second stages. We will continue to seek funding and get the second stage under way as soon as we can,’’ he said.
‘‘Once we get the first stage completed then we’ll sort out funding for stage two, and then stage three and four of the projects will follow.’’
A second barbecue, a pump track and a basketball half› court were expected to be built later in the project.
Mr McPhee said completed elements illustrated the demand for the upgrade.
‘‘We’re really pleased with how well the learn›to›ride bike park and Clutha Vets dog park are being used by the community.
‘‘We’re very grateful for the support we’ve had from funders and other contributors as we keep moving forward.
‘‘All being well, we’d like to see everything done and dusted by 2024.’’
Mr McPhee said updates would be posted to the Naish & Centennial Park Redevelopment Facebook page.
