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Open Space ShowcasedPlanners and recreation staff from across the state visited Bass Coast at the end of March for the Open Space Planners Network Meeting at the Kilcunda Community Centre. By Bass Coast Shire Council - 21st April 2009 - Back to News According to Bass Coast Shire Council’s Recreation and Leisure Planner, Ella Angarane, hosting the meeting was a way for Council to show how their open space management has improved in recent years.
"Council adopted the Open Space Plan in 2008 and it provides very clear direction on how we manage our open spaces," explained Ms Angarane.
"Research from the plan makes it clear that walking is the number one activity for many residents.
"Fifty six per cent of respondents identified walking or jogging as the main activity undertaken in open space and 26 per cent want paths improved for wheelchairs, prams and general walking," said Ms Angarane.
"Council has used this information to help create more opportunities for walking, like the path currently being constructed on Phillip Island starting on Back Beach Road, along Sunset Strip and finishing at the Koala Conservation Centre."
The Open Space Planners Network is made up of open space planners, recreation planners and consultants. The Network meets quarterly to share information, discuss open space issues and look at successful projects.
Council Strategic Planning Coordinator, Martin Gill, made a presentation at the meeting about open space from a planner’s perspective.
"The meeting had a focus on how open space planners can work together with statutory and strategic planning to ensure better outcomes for public open space," said Mr Gill.
"Wonthaggi is a good example of a town with a great green belt around it, open spaces in the centre of town and paths that connect it to the community.
"The Wonthaggi Dalyston Structure plan is a good example of a plan that seeks to protect and enhance this open space," explained Mr Gill
The open space planners’ network was developed as part of Parks and Leisure Australia, the professional Association for the parks and leisure industry.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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