Community members interested in a new proposal for Jaycee Park and Sunnyside House in Camperdown are invited to a public meeting on Thursday 30 April.
Camperdown aged-care facility Sunnyside House has approached Council with a proposal to lease Jaycee Park in Manifold Street, Camperdown.
Sunnyside is planning to expand with 16 new dementia care beds and a community wellbeing centre.
The expansion requires additional car parking and upgraded fire services, and Sunnyside has proposed locating these services on part of Jaycee Park. The playground in Jaycee Park will remain accessible to the public under the proposed arrangement.
Sunnyside House CEO Jo Forrest said: "Sunnyside House is currently undertaking feasibility studies for an expansion that would include 16 new dementia care beds and a community wellbeing centre.
"To support this potential development, increased car parking and upgraded emergency services access are being investigated, including the possible use of a portion (approx. 30%) of Jaycee Park adjacent to the existing facility for these services.
"The playground will remain publicly accessible under any proposed arrangement."
Corangamite Shire Council is asking local residents to share their ideas about an expansion proposal by Sunnyside House.
Mayor Kate Makin said Council wanted to hear from the community before making any decisions.
"If approved, the new beds and wellbeing centre would be built on the existing Sunnyside House site. Parking and fire services would be located in the park.
"Almost half the Shire's population is expected to be over 55 by 2031 which calls for long-term planning to meet the community's future needs.
"But parks and open spaces are really important for the health and wellbeing of the whole community.
"Sunnyside House has said it is willing to work closely with Council on how Jaycee Park is looked after in the future.
"One option is for Sunnyside House to manage and maintain the park, while Council keeps ownership of the land.
"The playground in Jaycee Park would stay open for public use under the proposed lease.
"After consultation, Council will review the community's views and decide whether to support the proposed lease of part of Jaycee Park."
Community members can also provide their feedback online at conversations.corangamite.vic.gov.au/jaycee-park until 5 pm Thursday 7 May.
