Connell Park Precinct Development

Bellingen Shire Council has been working closely with key stakeholders and the NSW Government to develop the Connell Park Precinct Project.

Connell Park Precinct development is split into multiple stages of work:

• Three new Hard Surface Netball Courts and competition level Lighting
• Two new multi-sport amenity buildings replacing old ones, with accessible facilities for all, including showers and toilets for sports and pool users.
• Inclusion of a changing places facility within Pool amenity building
• New public toilets near the swim centre and playground
• Improved field surfaces and drainage to reduce wet weather impact and provide a smooth playing surface.
• Installation of a smart field lighting system
• Construction of a new turf cricket wicket
• Enhanced connectivity with shared paths and bridges for improved access.
• Landscaping and fencing to beautify Connell Park and keep playing fields safe from unauthorised vehicles

Timeframe

Council is working closely with organised sporting groups, Landcare and the section 355-committee responsible for the management of Connell Park to develop staging and development of detailed designs.

Connell Park is planned to be closed from October 2024 for approximately 9 months, pending weather.

• Stage 1 Footbridge, Pool Upgrades and Netball Courts (Completed)

• Stage 2  Field Drainage, Surface Improvements and Lighting Installation (October 2024 – June 2025)

• Stage 3  Amenity Buildings (Early 2025 – Late 2025)

Connell Park Documents

Please refer to the attached Connell Park Masterplan Concept Design for details outlining upcoming works

Connell-Park-Masterplan.pdf(PDF, 4MB)

Connell-Park-Future-Field-Layout.pdf(PDF, 8MB)

Connell-Park-Plan-of-Management.pdf(PDF, 2MB)

Project Update - Citrus Trees

Published: 23 December 2024

There are no immediate plans to remove the citrus trees at Connell Park along Waterfall Way. 

The Connell Park Plan of Management does highlight opportunities to enhance attributes such as shade trees and improve the alignment of the entry corridor along Waterfall Way. 

While these considerations may involve changes to the area, there are currently no actions regarding the citrus trees as Council is continuing to assess the feasibility and costings of this section of the project.

Should this work be recommended by Council staff, further information will be shared with the community through appropriate engagement processes.

The steering committee of the Connell Park Precinct Development will continue to liaise with the S355 Committee in the new year regarding any future plans for the citrus trees.