A PLAN for a privately-run water fun park at Corowa is set to get a major boost at Federation Council’s meeting on Tuesday.
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Shire administrator Mike Eden should give in-principle support for the development to be located on council land in Riesling Street near the town’s tennis club.
The approval will be subject to a satisfactory management plan and lease deal between the shire and consortium of fun park investors.
In her report recommending the move, Federation Council corporate and community services director Kristy Kay noted positive opinion for the plan.
“The proposal has generated much interest from the local community with 21 responses received,” Ms Kay stated.
“Overall most people (19) were in support of the proposed development.
“Whilst only two responses were against the proposed development, they identified the location as being the main issue, citing reasons such as safety, cost for families, commercial viability and sustainability.”
Consortium spokesman Shaun Whitechurch welcomed the council’s backing.
“From our point of view it’s great that they are going to the recommendation and should it go through as presented the consortium can now put their whole development and plans to the council, so we can get the ball rolling,” Mr Whitechurch said.
He expected the group would be able to present a detailed blueprint to the council for consideration at its May meeting.
The first stage of the fun park would involve three water slides, a mini splash pad, kiosk and barbecue area.
A second leg is to include a putt putt golf course and an area for an animal farm to occupy in school holidays.
Mr Whitechurch has not put a value on the aquatic project but it could be similar to the $350,000 spent on the Wangaratta splash park which replaced the Yarrunga pool.
A valuation of the land to determine a rental figure will be required as part of the process.
“The consortium don’t expect the lease for nix, they expect rent to be on commercial terms,” Mr Whitechurch said.
He admitted the group’s original aim of opening by December 1 would be tight.
“Whilst having it ready for next summer is optimistic nothing is impossible if approvals fall into place relatively quickly,” Mr Whitechurch said.