More than 400 responses to City survey to redevelop foreshore youth precinct show shade and wind the focus

The City of Greater Geraldton is close to finalising the feedback phase of their youth precinct revitalisation project, with hundreds of responses flooding in and most wanting shade and wind protection. A survey available to the public in March was used as a medium for the city to engage with young people. The survey has allowed the city to hear concerns or suggestions for the precinct, located on the foreshore, near Stow Gardens. Since the precinct opened in 2016, the sun, salt, sand, and wind have taken their toll on the equipment and nearly half has been removed, with more equipment soon to reach its end of life. Instead of replacing the equipment, the city is looking to breathe new life into the area by redeveloping it into a hub with activities and opportunities for young people. City of Greater Geraldton CEO Ross McKim said they had received more than 400 responses to the survey so far. The majority of respondents were between the ages of 12 and 15. “Although we haven’t started to collate the results yet, as there is still a week to go until the survey closes, some of the initial feedback we have received is that there should be more shade and protection from the wind,” Mr McKim said. “Young people are just as interested in social activities as they are in physical activities.” Mayor Jerry Clune is encouraging residents to provide innovative ideas on how the space could look and what to include in a new masterplan for the area. “There are a lot of options to consider and with your ideas we can create a space that resonates with the interests and aspirations of the young people of Geraldton,” he said.