A re-imagined vision for the town of Picton was on the agenda when Wollondilly Council considered the proposed Picton Place Plan at last night's Council meeting.
The plan has now been approved for Public Exhibition, with residents having the opportunity to give their feedback on the future direction of the town.
With the Wollondilly Community Cultural and Civic Precinct identified in Council's 20 year land use vision for the Shire, Wollondilly 2040, Picton's role is emerging as a vibrant, strong cultural and civic centre and an important alternative for the community alongside the new town centre planned for Wilton.
Approval of the Picton Place Plan will reaffirm Council's commitment to sustainable growth, with a focus on protecting the unique qualities of Wollondilly's towns and villages and Wilton identified as the major growth centre.
The Place Plan includes a range of strategies to enhance Picton over the years ahead. However it's important to note that Council looks at the needs of the whole Shire when setting its budget and delivery of the Place Plan is intended to be just one of a range of investments in our towns and villages.
Mayor Robert Khan said, "The proposed place plan will provide Council and the community with a shared vision for the town of Picton and guide the delivery of future programs, events and infrastructure projects."
"The findings of the Picton Place Plan are closely intertwined with the development of the Community, Cultural and Civic Precinct, with the projects happening in parallel to make sure we have a consistent outcome."
The Picton Place Plan is a guiding document that will assist Council and the community to identify the purpose and character of the town and will further strengthen Picton's position as the commercial hub of Wollondilly and the home of government services.
The key principles which have been incorporated into the plan following previous community engagement include: open space and more trees, opportunities to engage with nature, more activities and longer operating hours, and a reduction in traffic congestion.
Residents and businesses are also keen to maintain a village lifestyle, protect rural views and integrate the valuable heritage and character of Picton.
Apart from the Wollondilly Community, Cultural and Civic Precinct, other related key projects will include the Picton Parklands Master Plan and the proposed Picton Bypass.
The Picton Place Plan is set to go on Public Exhibition in the coming weeks; and Council is encouraging the Wollondilly community to visit Your Say Wollondilly and register for updates.
"It's important that this Plan reflects the community's vision for Picton now and into the future. We want to hear from the community to make sure we have got it right. So we are encouraging everyone to take a look at the Picton Place Plan and tell us know what you think" said Mayor Robert Khan.
