Locals question future of iconic Douglas play area
WHAT'S NEXT?
The removal of a much-loved playground in the heart of Port Douglas has been met with stern public reaction with many locals taking to social media to express their disappointment about the matter.
The uprooting of the Rex Smeal playground this week has inquisitive Douglas Shire residents questioning the future of the location, with parents and ratepayers suggesting the spot is prime real estate for the installation of an overdue splash park.
However, it seems all is not lost with Council confirming to Newsport just a short time ago it does have plans to build a new playground on the same site – but that’s dependent on future funding.
“Hope they put (sic) back water park like Cairns has for all the kids – don’t need a big one,” a local posted on the highly popular Port Douglas/Mossman Buy Swap and Sell page.
“But about time we had something for the kids here.”
“Hope they make a new one,” another poster remarked.
Another reader requested more information from Douglas Shire Council.
“It would be great if the notice just satisfied everyone’s angst by stating what it will be replaced with instead of leaving it hanging,” the post said.
“Does that mean nothing will replace it, Council could be better at communicating?
However, when Newsport made enquiries Council was transparent with its future plans for the site.
Douglas Shire mayor Michael Kerr offered a firm “yes” to Newsport about whether a new playground will be built in the same location.
However, it remains unclear what the playground will or would look like.
“A concept plan for a new Green Ant Playground was prepared and released for public comment in August last year,” Mr Kerr said.
“Councillors resolved to endorse a grant application for the upgrade of the Rex Smeal Park playground in February 2022 and a grant application was lodged under Round six of the Federal Government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
“The Australian Government announced on 24 October 2022 that the BBRF will be discontinued.
“Council officers are seeking alternative grant opportunities to secure funding to replace the playground."
Points of interest
- Douglas Shire Council inspects every playground in the Shire regularly for safety and the most recent safety inspection of the playground in Rex Smeal Park identified critical safety issues.
- The playground was closed and fenced off to restrict access with signs in place advising it is dangerous to use the equipment.
- A notice was placed on Council’s website on October 13, 2022 advising of the critical safety issues and playground closure.
- One of the main load bearing posts for the top deck of the ship has disintegrated due to wood rot and cannot take any weight. Due to the age of the equipment, it is not feasible to repair and it will be removed.