Following an extensive community consultation period, the Maryborough Major Reserves Master Plans was adopted at last night's meeting of Council (27/09).
Developed with input from user groups, stakeholders and the wider community, the Draft Master Plan for Princes Park, Jack Pascoe Reserve and J.H Hedges Memorial Park was available for community feedback between Monday 2 May 2022 until Thursday 2 June, 2022- with multiple consultation sessions taking place.
The development of the Draft Plans has been led by Otium Planning Group.
Central Goldfields Shire Maryborough Ward Councillor Gerard Murphy said the Maryborough Major Reserves Master Plans establish clear direction for the further development and management of Princes Park, Jack Pascoe Reserve and J.H Hedges Oval.
"The Master Plans ensure that the reserves remain relevant and sustainable community assets that meet contemporary needs. Each Master Plan provides a strategic direction for each reserve with prioritised recommendations for the short, medium and long term.
"Thank you to everyone who took the time to provide feedback on the plans.
"All of the feedback received was considered and discussed. Amendments were then made to each of the master plans as required, taking into account demand, feasibility and cost implications."
Cr Murphy said the plans highlight more than 50 high, medium and low priority building and site works across the three reserves, with a cost of $25,495,000.
"Determining the priority of projects will take into consideration factors such as facility compliance standards, asset condition, health and safety requirements, usage and demand, improved accessibility, greater provision of female friendly facilities and ensuring facilities are fit for purpose.
"The funding for identified high priority projects will be pursued as a matter of urgency."
The Draft Plans suggested the placement of a Splash Park to be located within the Outdoor Pool grounds, to ensure attendance to the pool is not reduced.
Feedback received highlighted that the community wants the Splash Park to be free, unfenced, and available for much longer dates/times than the outdoor pool.
A separate, detailed piece of work will be undertaken by Council in collaboration with the local community to arrive at a final set of options and recommendation for the best possible site for a Splash Park in the Shire.
These Plans will provide a guide for Council and community decision making for the next ten to fifteen years.
They will also be a key document in leveraging grant funding for planning, facility development and programming initiatives.
