Woy Woy’s beloved Pelican Park is getting a makeover with survey results revealing the community is very invested in its future.

More than 500 people made submissions during the consultation period in May which has helped inform Council’s approach to the design of the revamped playspace.

In what has been one of the closest results to date through a public survey, opinion was almost equally divided between Option 1 of nature play and Option 2 of pirate theme play.

As a result, a hybrid model featuring the best elements from both concepts will now progress through to a design stage.

It is anticipated that the designs will be exhibited publicly in the final quarter of this year, with construction slated to begin sometime after peak summer season.

Council’s Director Community and Recreation Services Melanie Smith said the community’s input was vital to this project.

“Council has listened to the survey results and noted community preference to ensure that     the swamp cypress tree is maintained in its entirety, as well as the fencing which was seen as an important part of the attraction of the playspace for parents with young children.

“While the design has yet to be finalised, I can confirm that the materials will be as natural as possible, and we will retain the existing fence line and picnic tables. This playspace will be accessible for all ages and will be a safe and inclusive space for many years to come,” Ms Smith said.

Council Administrator Rik Hart said the upgrade to Pelican Park is just one of many exciting developments in the pipeline for the peninsula community.

“I am absolutely delighted in the feedback we received from the community during this process and I thank them for being so engaged with this project. Since 1999 Pelican Park has been an important playspace for the community, and it’s pleasing that this makeover will allow that to continue.

“With construction on a district level playspace in Lion’s Park less than 1km away planned to start in 2024, it’s an exciting time for the community.”