“A win for the people” is how local residents have described a decision by Ararat Rural City to dump plans to sell a popular park.
After a period of community consultation, councillors decided on Tuesday night to retain ownership of the green space which fronts onto View Point and Banfield Streets.
The issue first surfaced at June’s council meeting where councillors were asked to consider the development of the small parcel of council-owned land.
Following that meeting, the decision was made to seek community input.
A massive 155 submissions were received from community members.
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The submissions covered a wide range of perspectives and information, including how the land is currently used, its history, and comments on the possible future uses and considerations for the different usage options.
This week, councillors were asked to defer any decision until after October’s election, but they went a step further voting to keep the park in public hands.
Cr Jo Armstrong highlighted the significance of the community’s feedback on the matter.
“We have had an overwhelming indication from the community that the proposed sale of this land is not desired by the community and by the neighbourhood,” she said.
“I believe that as the group of councillors, as we stand today… we are responsible to make a decision in this Council term.
“Our community has very clearly indicated [that this land] is important to them to keep as open space.”
Cr Gwenda Allgood also emphasised the significance of the park to the local community.
“This park is valued by our people, by our families, and by our children. It’s really important that as a council we listen to the people, and tonight we have listened,” Cr Allgood said.
The campaign against the sale of the park was led by former Mayor Bill Jones, who said this week’s decision was a vote for common sense.
“This is a good decision although there was a little hint (at the meeting) it is for the time being. We need to continue watching it very carefully,” he said.
Mr Jones said with housing blocks getting smaller and smaller, public space is invaluable.
“The closer council allows development, the smaller the blocks become, the more important these spaces are. There is no play space for children and young people in a lot of these modern allotments and we need these spaces,” he said.
Mr Jones said it was important for people to keep an eye on council’s website to spot future developments and plans and take action where necessary.
Ararat Rural City Council has extended its thanks to the community for their thoughts and input on the future of the park.