Work begins on the Spalding revitalisation project’s $5.2 million second stage

Construction has officially started on the second stage of a revitalisation project for Spalding which will see upgrades to AMC Park and the Mitchell Street Community Centre carried out.

Following the demolition of 12 derelict and ageing social housing properties on Bogle Way and Sullivan Court, a list of upgrades will be delivered for the park and community centre, and a new road and footpath network will be constructed to connect Mitchell Street and Bogle Way.

Improvements include a playground, basketball court, public art, bush tucker garden, yarning circle and public toilets for AMC park, and more car parking, including ACROD parking, a veranda and reconfigured interior for the Mitchell Street Community Centre.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn said the improvements would “pump new life into the heart of the suburb.”

“The AMC Park master plan . . .will completely transform the look and feel of the park and how the Mitchell Street Community Centre can be used,” he said.

“New road connections and extensions will make it so much easier for community members living on the west side of the centre to walk, ride or drive to the facility and visit the park,” Mr Van Styn said.

Housing Minister John Carey said the project was part of an effort to create a thriving community in Spalding.

“It’s great to see second stage construction works under way which will include improved road and pedestrian connections which will result in increased accessibility around the suburb,” Mr Carey said.

Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton said the project would create a focal point for socialising in the area.

“All these improvements will add new life into the heart of the suburb and help promote a strong sense of community,” Ms Dalton said.

Work is expected to take about eight months to complete, and will cost $5.2 million, with $4.9m from the State Government and the rest from the City.

The third stage will see refurbishment carried out on existing public housing in the area to finish the $9m project.