A SURVEY to help decide the future use of Braeside Park has been launched by Parks Victoria.
Some of the proposed changes to the 310 hectare space include allowing dogs and group camping. Parks Victoria launched a survey to gauge community responses on 9 December.
Parks Victoria area chief ranger cardinia sandbelt Darren Mitchell said “the community has told us how important Braeside Park is to them, their oasis in the suburbs. This consultation process will help Parks Victoria create a plan that ensures the park continues to provide diverse opportunities to interact with nature while preserving this park and the incredible environment that exists within it.”
“We appreciate the active contribution many community groups make to the park and look forward to the opportunity to work collaboratively with the public and its vision for this important open space,” he said.
A Parks Victoria press release read that they are “seeking the involvement of the community to influence the future of Braeside Park, a popular spot for walking, cycling, picnicking and nature admiring that has experienced a surge of visitation in recent years.”
“This growth has necessitated the development of a precinct plan, to ensure the park remains relevant to the community for recreational and educational experiences whilst preserving its environmental and cultural values,” the press release read.
“Following consultation with subject matter experts from Parks Victoria, the City of Kingston and park volunteer groups, a number of concepts have been raised which include allowing dogs within the park, allowing group camping within the park, commercial activation to improve visitor experience, facilitation of larger social community events e.g. markets and festivals, walking access through Heathland Conservation Area, and the creation of a community hub within the park.”
The precinct plan will be developed after the conclusion of the survey and released for community consultation in 2020.
The survey can be completed at engage.vic.gov.au/shape-future-braeside-park, and comments can be made by emailing info@parks.vic.gov.au.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone New – 25 December 2019
