Council releases designs for Seaforth’s marine-inspired recreation hub

There will be a new water play area, two playgrounds, a coastal walk and more parking spaces as part of the development.

A concept design for a new recreation hub in the Mackay region has been revealed, with a swimming enclosure to be its centrepiece.

Mackay Regional Council has developed concept designs for the Seaforth Esplanade Reserve recreational hub following community consultation.

It will be used to progress the next stage of the project – the detailed design.

Earlier this month, JFP Urban Design Consultants, who worked on the initial master plan for Seaforth Esplanade, were appointed to start work on the detailed design for this project.

Mayor Greg Williamson said there was plenty of excitement surrounding the new hub.

“We want to transform Seaforth Esplanade into a vibrant and exciting space where residents and visitors to the area can spend quality time with their families,” Cr Williamson said.

“The release of the concept plan means we are one step closer to realising this vision as we progress with work on the detailed design.”

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Apart from a swimming enclosure, the area will also boast two new playgrounds catering to a wide range of ages, a coastal walk, new and improved amenities and path connections and an extension to the existing car park area.

“Most exciting however is the plan to create an all-abilities water play area to replace the old wading pool,” Cr Williamson said.

“This new attraction incorporates an oversized splash pad area with various water jets and sprays modelled on local marine life and corals, as well as a 15cm shallow pool that will mimic the ocean’s tidal movements.

“New customised shelters will help shade not only the water play area and traditional play equipment, but also offer the ideal beachside picnic area, complete with barbecue facilities.”

Seaforth’s beach and the marine life have inspired the new area.

The detailed design is expected to be completed by August and construction is expected to start in 2022.

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Originally published as Council releases designs for Seaforth’s marine-inspired recreation hub