CONSTRUCTION crews have arrived at the Portland foreshore to begin works on a $1.2 million transformation, marking the first step of a multi-million dollar master plan.
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Work has started on the new fit-out of the foreshore playground toilets which will become a changing space, providing all-abilities access made possible by a $200,000 state government grant.
Design details are also being finalised for the $1 million All Abilities Playspace, funded by Glenelg Shire, anticipated to be a major tourist attraction for inclusive play.
Mayor Cr Anita Rank said the works were an important component in renewing one of the shire's most loved and visited tourist attractions.
"These new investments are in response to requests from our community who successfully campaigned for this critical infrastructure as part of our broader foreshore renewal," Cr Rank said.
"The Changing Place improvements will provide safer and more accessible amenities, offering a tracking hoist and changing tables, which will have a positive impact on the lives and well-being of not only those living with a disability but their families and carers.
"People with high needs currently visiting the area have no dignified toilet access, forcing many people away. Now they have a place they can play and enjoy for hours, confidently knowing they have amenities on hand to cater for their needs."
The Changing Places amenities are due for completion by the end of the financial year, while the All Abilities Playspace is due for construction in mid-July with completion predicted for early 2020.
"It is anticipated people will travel from across the Green Triangle region to use the new All Abilities Playspace which will include state of the art equipment to ensure those with a disability can play alongside their peers," Cr Rank said.
"Importantly these works will compliment the youth activity space infrastructure, which has been pivotal in building visitation to the foreshore area over the past five years.
"These new assets will only further improve the aesthetics and attract a new generation to this beautiful foreshore precinct."
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