FRANKSTON Council is planning to build a kindergarten at a popular Langwarrin reserve.
A new kindergarten will be built at Long Reserve if the plan proceeds.
Council is currently undertaking community consultation and has presented two options to residents. One would see the new kindergarten built towards the edge of the park. The other would see the new centre occupy a more central location in the park but would result in the loss of fewer trees.
Protesters visited the park last week to voice their disapproval.
Council says that the development would only occupy 22 per cent of the existing park space. It will serve as a new home for Langwarrin Pre-School, which is currently based 200 metres further down Long Street. It will also house the services currently offered at the Langwarrin Maternal and Child Health Centre.
Frankston mayor Nathan Conroy said the new facility is needed “to ensure that there are sufficient high quality kindergarten places and related early years services available to support the young families living in the area now and into the future.”
“Both concept plans for the proposal retain the majority of the perimeter trees for privacy and green outlooks. Council recognises the importance of local neighbourhood character, which is highly valued by residents, and will assess any potential traffic impacts, including review by traffic engineers.” he said. “The proposal does not include space for a long day childcare to operate. All feedback will be considered in making a resolution as to how this proposal may progress.
“We encourage residents to visit the Engage Frankston website to review the two proposals and provide their feedback. Council’s extensive engagement process includes two planned community meetings, as well as an online survey and direct mail submissions.”
Community consultation closes 26 March. Make a submission at engage.frankston.vic.gov.au/early-years-infrastructure/new-kindergarten-langwarrin