Playground still has green light: Mayor

BUDGET NEWS: Doubts have been raised over Bunbury’s long-awaited Water Playground, despite the ambitious project being included in the 2016-17 Budget.

The bill for the playground has been costed at $7.3 million and the Bunbury City Council has carried over a $1 million loan from last financial year earmarked for the project.

The plan is heavily reliant on State and Federal government funding, with $6.3 million yet to be sought.

The Water Playground could be off the table if the money is not raised by next June.

However, Mayor Gary Brennan remains confident the council will get funding despite admitting it has been unsuccessful to date.

“There’s another round of Federal funding coming up and we’re asking them for $1 million and we’re asking the State Government for $3 million – that will get the first stage of the playground up,” he said.

Mr Brennan said the playground was a regional project and it would be a good incentive during the upcoming State Election.

Bunbury MLA John Castrilli said he supported the playground concept as it was part of the overall plan to revitalise the city.

Mr Castrilli said he would have further discussions with Mr Brennan for possible future funding options.

“It fits into the joint effort and vision of the State Government and the City for injecting life into our waterfront areas, including the Leschenault Inlet,” he said.

“The water playground would add another dimension to the experience and help in creating a dynamic city environment.”