The Castle Street Carpark amenities are to be upgraded to provide specialised accessible toilets that include a bed hoist and showering facilities for people with severe disabilities.
The $88,900 project has been made possible by Coffs Harbour Rotary South whose members will be undertaking the construction work and fit-out. Work is due to begin in the middle of May and is expected to take four to five weeks.
Peter Dickson-Smith from Coffs Harbour Rotary South said: “We’re very happy to be able to make a contribution to providing this facility as a contribution towards an all-inclusive society.”
Half the cost of the project has been provided by Council through its Community Infrastructure Grants program. These grants offer funds to not-for-profit organisations wanting to build new or refurbish existing public facilities, in consultation with Council.
Each group has to provide match funding for the proposed projects in the form of options such as cash, in-kind labour or materials.
“People with severe or profound disabilities and their families find it difficult to get out and about without knowing they have access to these kind of facilities, so I’m thrilled that Council has been able to help Coffs Harbour Rotary South with this very, very worthwhile venture,” said Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Denise Knight. “I’d like to congratulate the members of Coffs Harbour Rotary South for their community spirit and enthusiasm.”
The project will upgrade the existing disabled toilet and public shower at the amenities block. During the works, the disabled facilities will be unavailable, but people can use the amenities in Coffs Central and Park Avenue. Once completed, access to the new facility will be via MLAK keys.
Plans are in place to provide a similar facility at the Jetty Foreshores as part of the latest stages of the Jetty4Shores Project. That facility is expected to be finished by Christmas. In addition, another specialised accessible toilet is to be built at Sawtell.
Anyone interested in learning more about applying for a Community Infrastructure Grant should contact Council on 6648 4281.
