From the coast to the Flinders Ranges, and Mt Gambier to Streaky Bay, neighbourhood open spaces are being revitalised through a fund dedicated to improving local public amenities.
In the past two years, 64 projects have been funded through the Open Spaces and Places for People grant program, reaching a combined State Government, council and additional contribution total of $124.7 million.
The 2021/22 grant round opens today (July 1), with the Marshall Liberal Government setting aside a further $14.7 million for job creating and environmentally friendly projects.
"This fund has enabled projects like the Wigley Reserve Playspace at Glenelg, the Prospect Gardens / Narnu Wirra Redevelopment project and the Quorn Bush Tucker Walk get underway – improving community spaces for residents right across South Australia," Minister for Planning and Local Government Vickie Chapman said.
"It is providing local tradespeople with a long pipeline of work, while simultaneously improving play spaces and walking trails in your backyard.
"Local councils can apply for projects which they believe will improve public realm, provide public health benefits and support climate change, and must match the State Government's grant with their own contribution," she said.
The 2019/20 grant round helped fund 37 projects, while the 2020/21 round saw 27 priority projects receive funding.
"It is important we continue to secure our status as Australia's most liveable city, and these funds will ensure neighbourhoods have beautiful public spaces for South Australians to enjoy," she said.
"It will cement our State as the ideal place for people to live, work and raise a family," she said.
Councils can apply for funding online through SmartyGrants and find the revised Open Space Grant Program Guidelines on PlanSA.
For further information contact the Open Space Team at [email protected] or 8402 1852.
