In a statement issued to the Daily Liberal yesterday Mr Lawrence said: "I must say I am mystified as to why it took so long for him to do this. Much needless stress has been endured by the Playmates community by the delay".

The Country Labor candidate has now called on Mr Grant to confirm the government will fund the full cost of a replacement building in due course; and not merely make a "token contribution".

"I would like to congratulate the members of the Playmates committee for their effective advocacy and campaigning on the issue. I also acknowledge the good work that Councillor Ben Shields has undertaken. He is without any doubt the Dubbo politician who deserves the most credit for this commitment finally having been made", the statement concluded.