City of Greater Geraldton seeks feedback on early designs for revamped foreshore youth precinct

The City of Greater Geraldton is seeking public opinion on the foreshore youth precinct, with a zipline, trampolines, and a skatepark included in the draft concept masterplan for the area. The precinct, which hosts a number of facilities including a playground and basketball court, had deteriorated over time. Rather than replacing the equipment, the city engaged with the community to seek feedback on what young people wanted for the area, with 450 people giving their opinion in a survey and workshops. City of Greater Geraldton mayor Jerry Clune said the masterplan reflected the feedback. “In the past five months we’ve engaged with residents through a community survey and in a series of workshops with more than 60 student leaders from local high schools and youth service providers regarding the Youth Precinct,” he said. “What we heard was more shade and shelter from the wind is needed and young people want the precinct to include exciting activities such as a zipline, skate/scoot facilities, trampolines and climbing equipment, along with quieter spaces where they can socialise such as big swings, covered tables and benches, hang out areas and shade trees. “Thanks to student involvement in the co-design process, we have a draft concept masterplan that reflects the aspirations of young people and now we want to know what the broader community thinks about the design.” According to the city survey, the masterplan also includes football goal posts, while the basketball court would remain. The council allocated $4 million to the project as part of its 2024-25 budget. Meanwhile, the city is also looking for feedback on expanding recreational facilities to the area between Cathedral Avenue and Dome Cafe. Early concept ideas show the space being transformed into a multifunctional space and hang out spaces, as well as covered nest swings. Mr Clune said although it’s not part of the youth precinct, community feedback on the project was sought as part of future budget considerations. People wishing to provide feedback on the designs can do so online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/youthprecinct2024.