Parkes Shire Council is continuing its investigative work into the salinity issues currently affecting Cheney Park.
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As part of the investigations consultants have undertaken detailed data gathering and analysis.
Council received a $550,000 grant under the NSW Government's Stronger Country Communities Fund to rehabilitate the site, which has been significantly affected by dry land salinity in recent years.
Investigations undertaken last year also highlighted an issue with the water table.
Council consultants have commenced extensive monitoring of the site, including contour surveys, regular aerial surveys, an electro-magnetic survey, soil sampling, and core sampling.
Council's Director Infrastructure, Andrew Francis said, "The data obtained by the consultants will inform the type and level of rehabilitation works required on site and allow detailed designs to be developed to guide these works."
"This will ensure Council implements adequate and sustainable measures to rehabilitate the playing surface and reinstate Cheney Park as a premier sporting facility."
During the analysis period, the affected area will be fenced off to prevent further damage to the playing surface and ensure the safety of park users.
Mayor of Parkes Shire, Cr Mayor Ken Keith OAM says, "While we want to see Cheney Park back in operation as soon as possible, we also want to ensure that we thoroughly investigate and develop an appropriate action plan so that we don't face the same issues in years to come."
In 2018, Council installed 675 metres of subsoil drainage lines under Station Street adjacent to the oval, to assist in draining the subsurface water which is causing major failures on the street.
These drainage lines have shown a continual, steady flow of water trickling through the newly laid system and out to the surface drain near the Newell Highway on the eastern side of Cheney Park.
The consultants are expected to provide Council with a report in the coming months, detailing recommended soil treatment, levelling material, location and design of sub-soil drainage, robust landscaping, irrigation design and watering program.
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