The play space is a key project in the Glenelg shire’s foreshore master plan, which aims to enhance the physical character of the area, provide a community meeting space and to drive tourism.

South West Coast Liberal candidate Roma Britnell said the project had many benefits to many people. 

"I can already see this play space being a fantastic community meeting space, with children playing together and families enjoying time together," she said.

“This also has potential to drive tourism, if people travelling with children know there is an amazing, playground, with good facilities, they will stop off and might buy a coffee or some lunch.

“We’ve seen how popular Warrnambool’s Lake Pertobe is with locals and visitors.

This is an opportunity for Portland to create something similar," she said.

During 2016 the  Portland community submitted a petition supporting the development of an inclusive play space and momentum has snowballed ever since.

The play space has been designed on the back of extensive community consultation and will includes sensory sand and water play components, a combination of sheltered and grassland for picnics and barbecues and themed walking experiences.

The project will positively impact the lives and wellbeing of those with a disability, but also their families and carers. 

The commitment to the project follows on from the previous Liberal Government’s investments in the Portland foreshore, including $300,000 for the youth activity space and $5.1 million for the Portland Harbour Project, which included a new boat ramp and marina.