Brimbank Council has welcomed a recent government funding announcement for two new pocket parks in Brimbank.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lily D'Ambrosio announced that two new pocket parks in Brimbank will receive funding as part of the Victorian Government's Local Parks Program. This includes:
- $1,120,000 for the Cary Street Pocket Park, Sunshine North
- $1,147,000 for the Leslie Street Pocket Park, St Albans.
Brimbank Mayor, Cr Ranka Rasic welcomed the news and said this will ensure Brimbank families have access to more parks and quality green open spaces close to home – something that's become increasingly important as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Construction will start next year after the community is consulted on the concept plans. When complete, the parks will include landscaping and greenery, improved pedestrian connections, seating and spaces to relax with family and friends."
Since 2008, Council has been transforming Brimbank's park network by implementing the Creating Better Parks Policy and Plan, and investing around $35 million upgrading and creating 111 parks across Brimbank.
The ongoing development and upgrading of Brimbank's many parks, playgrounds and open spaces remains a key priority for Council.
"We want our communities to enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of more parks and shared open spaces for people to socialise, be active and play outdoors," Cr Rasic said.
"This is a great opportunity to improve Brimbank's liveability and create usable open spaces for a more social, healthy and active community.
"We look forward to delivering these new green open spaces that Brimbank residents can enjoy for years to come.
"On behalf of Council, I'd like to thank and recognise the State Government for its support, including our local parliamentarians who have supported our advocacy, which will go a long way in creating more vibrant and liveable communities," Cr Rasic said.
"The more than $2.2 million in State Government funding directly responds to Council's calls for greater investment in local open spaces, parks and outdoor facilities, as advocated through our Transforming Brimbank 2020 Agenda, and 19 Point Action Plan for COVID Response and Recovery.
"These two new pocket parks, build on the $675,000 in State Government funding already secured for another pocket park in Sunshine West and an off-leash dog park in Cairnlea, and continues to build momentum behind our 19 Point COVID Action Plan for even more support.
"Council looks forward to working with the State Government to deliver the new park projects, all while continuing to advocate towards the 2021-22 State Budget and North-West Melbourne City Deal process," Cr Rasic said.
