Palaszczuk Government “parks” more funding in Doug Jennings Park

Visitors to Doug Jennings Park on the Gold Coast will soon notice improved parking facilities and road access thanks to a $875,000 Palaszczuk Government funded upgrade.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the upcoming work would upgrade the road between Seaworld Drive and Moondarewa Spit, as well as creating more formal parking, enhancing traffic management and extending the shared footpath so it runs around the perimeter of the park.

He said picnic tables and park benches would also be added, and more native trees would be planted to improve shade.

“Doug Jennings Park sits in a unique position at the southern boundary of the Moreton Bay Marine Park with stunning panoramic views of the Broadwater and ocean and I am delighted to be able to announce the next stage of improvements,” Mr Bailey said.

“The 30 hectare parkland is not only an amazing recreational and environmental resource, but as an attraction it helps contribute to the local economy.”

Mr Bailey said the project added to the significant improvements already undertaken by Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA), who are trustees of the park.

“This $875,000 upgrade builds on the previous $4.5 million already invested in the area and highlights the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to maintaining open green spaces as the population grows,” he said.

“The community feedback on the improvements so far has been overwhelmingly positive and more and more visitors are discovering the charms of the park.”

GCWA Chief Executive Officer, Hal Morris, said: “Our waterways improvement plan is delivering across the Gold Coast and this investment in Doug Jennings Park will ensure it remains a world-class destination.

“The park is a much-loved area enjoyed by locals and visitors so it’s important that we are delivering what the community wants and needs. This is consistent with what the community has told us in previous consultation processes and in feedback through The Spit Masterplan process, which is being led by the Department of State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning in partnership with City of Gold Coast and GCWA.

“We are continuing to work closely with key stakeholders as we have throughout every stage of this project. While we will be keeping disruption to a minimum we appreciate everyone’s patience during the work.”

A locally based company Hazell Bros has been awarded the contract to undertake the works.  Construction is due to start in early September to be completed in time for the busy Christmas holiday period.

Project progress updates, including any park or road closure impacts will be available on GCWA’s website https://gcwa.qld.gov.au/

ENDS

Media contact: Dominic Geiger, 0447355565