WITHERS residents are no longer afraid to step outside and are using the suburb’s facilities a lot more, according to Withers Progress Association convenor Ken Warnes.
Mr Warnes said the area’s transformation in recent years had caused a noticeable increase in family activity.
“Progress in Withers has been going really well and the precinct committee is currently planning what needs to be upgraded next,” he said.
“I’ve noticed a huge increase in people coming out and using the parks and enjoying life in the suburb.”
The next step in the Withers transformation is set to boost infrastructure in local parks.
The South West Development Commission announced a combined $200,000 would be put towards upgrades for Des Ugle and Moriarty Park.
$75,480 has been set aside for reticulation at Des Ugle Park, while $132,558 will enable native planting to be carried out at Moriarty Park.
Withers Advisory Committee chairman James Hayward said the upgrades would increase morale in the community.
“The reticulation at Des Ugle Park will make sure it is green all year round and the planting at Moriarty will make it much more attractive,” he said.
“This will help us to develop and establish a sense of pride in the Withers community.”
The funding is on top of the $20,000 recently provided by the Commission for the second stage of the Withers water-wise kitchen garden, and $10,000 to support a community art project.
Mr Hayward said the fundamental changes had helped to make Withers a more community-minded suburb.
“Things like the CCTV footage have really helped in making Withers more family-friendly,” he said.
“It’s good to see more kids out in the parks kicking footballs.”
