Rise of apartment living boosts need for open space

Campbelltown City Council is developing a strategic plan for the management of open space over the next 20 years.

The draft Open Space Strategic Plan will be open for public comment from today, Tuesday, January 17 and until Friday, March 3.

The plan aims to develop an integrated and balanced approach to the use of existing and future public open space.

The aim is meet the needs of the population of Campbelltown now, and as it grows to a forecast 270,000 by 2036.

It will provide a framework for other strategies, including the Sport and Recreation and Play Space strategies, which are also currently on exhibition for public comment.

Open space is land in public ownership that is used for sport and recreation, passive outdoor activities, or is maintained as natural open space.

The plan’s priorities include improving the connectivity of the city’s open spaces to increase their use and to ensure open spaces are functional and accessible, and are managed sustainably to maximise the protection of the local environment.

Mayor of Campbelltown, Cr George Brticevic, said the trend towards smaller backyards and higher density living, and a growing population, meant that it was more important than ever to get the mix of open space areas right.

“The challenge is balancing a number of competing priorities,” he said.

[social_quote duplicate=”no” align=”default”]“We have the need for children’s playgrounds, peaceful areas for relaxation, and space for physical activity like walking and cycling or exercising your dog.[/social_quote]

“But equally important, we need to protect our local environment, address concerns about the loss of biodiversity, trees and wildlife, and ensure we stay connected to the natural world.

“It is vital that we also ensure that these open spaces are the appropriate size, space and location within our city.

“I encourage the community to get involved, to look at the draft plan, and to let us know their priorities for open space in our city.”

To view the draft plan during the public exhibition period, visit:

• Campbelltown Civic Centre, ground floor, corner Queen and Broughton Streets, Campbelltown from 8.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday;

• Any council library branch during business hours;

• Council’s website here, and follow the link to Open Space Strategic Plan 2016.

To comment, write to The General Manager, Campbelltown City Council, PO Box 57, Campbelltown NSW 2560 or email council@campbelltown.nsw.gov.au by March 3.