Bligh Street property a conservation win

Redland City Council has confirmed the future use of 30-40 Bligh Street, Wellington Point, a property purchased in early 2018 through the City’s environmental levy.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the 4.55 hectare property was of high environmental value, sitting at the heart of Geoff Skinner Wetlands, and its purchase had completed a significant Redlands Coast core habitat site.

“The Bligh Street land acquisition has ensured the Geoff Skinner Wetlands can be managed as one entity, recognising its importance as a key habitat and wildlife corridor,” Cr Williams said.

“Council purchased a number of adjoining properties in 2005 to create the Geoff Skinner Wetlands, and this property was the last piece of that puzzle.

“Initial works will include the removal of some structures, site clean-up and targeted weed control.

“In the future, as funding allows, we hope to improve the visitor experience through seating, interpretive signage and possibly a viewing platform.”

Division 1 Councillor Wendy Boglary said the Bligh Street property purchase increased the Hilliards Creek corridor, a main spinal wildlife corridor for Redlands Coast.

“After two years of working on this project I am so excited about the purchase of this property, of which around 80% is listed as an endangered regional ecosystem and is home to migratory wader birds,” Cr Boglary said.

“We are now getting to work in integrating the site into the Geoff Skinner Wetlands.

“Part of these works will include a trial closure of a section Bligh Street to improve site safety and better preserve the environmental values of the area.

“Likely to occur by the end of November, the road closure will create a safe recreational walking trail for people wanting to access Hilliards Creek and eventually connect with a loop trail planned for the property.”