AN upgrade to the Stockwell Recreation Park has been fast-tracked following the announcement of a successful State Government grant.

The project will include a BMX/pump track, shared use trails, landscaping, and fitness stations, as well as social amenities such as picnic settings, dog walking facilities, drink fountains and seating.

It is one of 37 community projects to share in $65.5 million from the State Government’s annual Planning and Development (P&D) Fund, which has been more than doubled this year.

Funding for the redevelopment has been split between the state government ($254,978) and Barossa Council ($254,980) to total $509,958.

Minister for Planning Stephan Knoll said an important part of the assessment criteria was for projects to be shovel-ready and able to get underway quickly to support local jobs and businesses.

“Projects such as the Stockwell redevelopment – part of Barossa Council’s The Big Project – will help our state come back stronger and better than before,” he said.

Barossa Mayor Bim Lange the project will activate an under-utilised space, linking the recreation park with Stockwell’s growing community.

“Especially with the impacts of COVID-19, it gives people more reasons to engage with the surrounding open space and participate in community life,” he said.

“This is another example of The Big Project delivering high-quality sports, community and events precincts and we thank the State Government for sharing and supporting this vision.”