Council revisits St Leonards play space proposal

A PROPOSAL for a new play space at Sandbar Reserve in St Leonards is being put forward for community feedback for a second time.

The play space was initially proposed by the City of Greater Geelong in 2016 in response to a gap in playgrounds available in this area, as identified in the Geelong Play Strategy.

Acting director of community life Robyn Stevens said while some families were enthusiastic for the new playground, some residents raised concerns regarding car parking availability, reserve maintenance and noise.

“Suggestions were also put forward that the reserve better suited the community as a passive open space rather than a playground,” Ms Stevens said.

Since that time no further progress has been made on the installation of the playground.

Ms Stevens said the proposed play space would feature natural elements, open space and landscaping to encourage active, free and imaginative play.

Locals have taken to social media in support of the proposal, with Ben David saying, “Playgrounds are so critical for the physical and social development of our kids. With a growing population of young families in St Leonards we need as many playgrounds as we can get”. Susan Grossman Ballagh said, “That is an awesome idea and a perfect place for one”.

The City is once again putting a proposed play space up for local residents within 400 metres of the reserve to provide feedback.

It is the council’s intention to progress this matter and it is committed to undertaking the following steps to achieve a resolution on the way forward.

Residences within a 400-metre radius of the reserve will be invited to provide feedback on the proposal. Feedback is welcome via geelongcity.vic.gov.au/yoursay until September 27.