Upgrade for neglected Cairns park given nod

ONCE classed as a “no-go zone” and a recognised realm of vandals and delinquents, Shang Street Park in Mooroobool is set to undergo a radical transformation.

The park is surrounded by a melting pot of cultures and community groups, which Deputy Mayor Terry James said in the past had led to unrest and vandalism.

But he said over the past 10 years the council, police and various community groups had worked towards building a much brighter picture.

Now, council is preparing to spend $270,000 to overhaul the facility.

Its Community Services committee this week endorsed the redevelopment, which will include a new barbecue area, touch football field, public toilets and upgrades to the basketball court and playgrounds.

According to a council report the park had “fallen into disrepair due to a combination of heavy use and vandalism”.

“Shang Street Park is the centrepiece of a very diverse community,” the report said.

“The park is one of the most well-used parks in Cairns and experiences extremely high visitor usage, particularly after school hours and on the weekends.”

Cr James said while the park environment had improved in recent years the upgrade would complete the job.

“Quite a few years ago it was a no-go zone after dark,” he said. “But it’s all turned around. “Now we’re working towards something that fits with all groups.

“The best thing is, it’s been designed by the community for the community.”

Mooroobool Hub Centre co-ordinator Nyamie Cedric, who lives a short walk from the park, said the area had transformed into a central home for youth in the community.

“I really think the upgrade will be such a fantastic thing for them when it gets built and it will put ownership back into the community,” he said.

“It did get run down and vandalised in previous years but now we’ve got our hands into redeveloping it and keeping it safe.”

The council report states that 41 per cent of the population around the park identifies as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, 19 per cent as being born overseas, 54 per cent of the homes were public housing, and there was 50 per cent unemployment and 70 per cent youth unemployment.

Cr James said construction works should begin within six months.