The City of Greater Bendigo is seeking feedback on a draft Community Gardens Policy that provides guidelines for groups already operating, or wanting to establish community gardens on City-owned or managed land.
City of Greater Bendigo Lockwood Ward Cr Jennifer Alden said the draft policy outlines the role the City will play in supporting the establishment of community gardens, planning guidelines that the gardens are expected to operate under and how the City will assess requests for new community gardens.
"It sets out the key areas of responsibility for community gardens to ensure consistency in the standards and management of community gardens across Greater Bendigo," Cr Alden said.
"It deals with issues such as contaminated soil, the need for community groups to drive the establishment and operation of the garden, requirements for leasing or licensing, responsible water usage and waste minimisation.
"The policy also explains the responsibilities and rights of community gardeners.
"Community Gardens play an important role in the life of our community and in improving health and wellbeing. They also promote knowledge of, and access to, fresh, organic and locally produced fruit and vegetables. As well as promoting sustainable gardening practices, building food literacy and strengthening community connections.
"The draft policy has been developed as part of the Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy Action Plan 2017-2021.
"It's important to have a policy around community gardens that clearly sets out the rights and responsibilities of all stakeholders involved in community gardens. We want these gardens to be successful and proudly owned by our community members."
The draft Community Gardens Policy can be viewed on the City's web site www.bendigo.vic.gov.au or at the City's office in Lyttleton Terrace until November 15, 2019.
