Have your say on open space priorities across shire

Have your say on open space priorities across shire

Published on 09 February 2022

Macedon Ranges Shire Council is developing a new Open Space Strategy to provide strategic direction for the planning, management and delivery of more than 900 hectares public open space in the shire that Council owns and manages.

As townships within the shire grow, the demand for quality open spaces for formal and informal recreation, conservation, environmental connectivity and social gatherings increases.

The new strategy will provide clear direction for planning, management and delivery of public open space in the shire, including conservation uses and developer contributions from new residential growth.

Phase 1 of the Open Space Strategy consultation is open from 14 February to 8 April 2022 and Council is looking to understand community preferences, perceptions and values related to open space.

Mayor, Jennifer Anderson said that ongoing community feedback is essential to confirm Council’s vision for the future of public open spaces because in terms of everyday interactions by the community, it is one of the most significant service areas provided by Council.

“The Open Space Strategy will determine how Council invests in infrastructure and manages day-today operation of open space, issues directly affecting many local community members, park users, recreation, sporting and environmental groups and volunteers,” she said.

The shire is renowned for its significant landscapes and diversity of open spaces and the revised Strategy will respond to fresh challenges and opportunities now facing open space in the shire.

“Increasing visitor numbers and our growing community, a changing climate, and commitment to reconciliation all alter the way in which open space is planned and managed. The new strategy will support growing community needs, growth of our visitor economy and Council’s commitment to reconciliation.”

“The feedback from this round of consultation will be considered along with previous engagement results and the existing strategy. The new strategy will help determine how Council responds to the priorities, needs and expectations of the Macedon Ranges community."

“The project team is committed to engaging with Traditional Owner groups and individuals to respect and build stronger cultural connections in the Macedon Ranges,” she said.

How you can get involved and have your say

There are a number of ways for residents, community groups, visitors to the shire and other stakeholders to get involved and have their say during 2022.

Deliberative engagement provides the opportunity for Council and the community to work together and Council is calling for expressions of interest from residents to get involved in our Open Space Community Assembly. To submit an application to join the Assembly visit Council’s website email [email protected]. The Macedon Ranges Open Space: Present and Future consultation paper explores some of the core challenges for the strategy and considers how they may be addressed. The consultation paper and community survey is available online or in hard copy at Council’s customer service centres in Gisborne, Kyneton, Romsey and Woodend. Consultation closes on Friday 8 April 2022.