Ambitious plans for a major sporting centre for Gilgandra shire’s young people has paid off and Mayor Doug Batten couldn’t be more pleased.

‘’I'm totally blown out of the water by this," he said.

"The pool needed big help, we made little additions here and there but this is fantastic."

Gilgandra Shire Council’s Hunter Park Multipurpose Youth and Recreation Precinct (Gilgandra Hunter Park Precinct) – has received a $14 million contribution from the Australian Government’s regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (rPPP), with a $2 million contribution from Council's own coffers.

Federal Labor Senator Deborah O’Neill said it was "a big enhancement for Gilgandra’s youth."

"This landmark $16 million development will deliver a modern, accessible and intergenerational community precinct featuring a new Youth Centre, gym, basketball courts, swimming pool, Learn to Swim pool, splash park and essential support services including for youth, housing and homelessness," she said.

"With a new, centralised location and appropriate zoning, the Gilgandra Hunter Park Precinct will consolidate key community assets and services into one vibrant, inclusive location."

Concept artwork for the new Hunter Park Precinct in Gilgandra. [IMAGE: GSC]

Mayor Cr Doug Batten said it’s a winner for everybody as he thanked the Federal Government.

“What a fantastic outcome for Gilgandra!

"The Gilgandra Hunter Park Precinct directly supports the goals of Council’s Towards 5000 strategy, enhancing regional liveability and leveraging growth of residential and industrial subdivisions.

"It is designed to support our existing community, whilst attracting new residents and families seeking opportunity, lifestyle and modern infrastructure in a regional community.”

Towards 5000 last week won a NSW LGA Award for Gilgandra at the state conference.

Council General Manager David Neeves said with a vision of supporting future economic sustainability and equity, Gilgandra Hunter Park Precinct will also provide spaces suitable for allied health services, and support volunteerism and local enterprise development.

"Design and planning will occur in close consultation with our local sporting and community groups," Mr Neeves said.

“This bold investment will allow Council to deliver on our commitment to creating a thriving, inclusive and forward-thinking community – strengthening youth support services, delivering exceptional recreational facilities and wellbeing outcomes for the region, and fuelling population growth.”