Petition to “keep park green”

By Lachlan Ellis

A petition to restrict new development at Rotary Park in Bacchus Marsh has been received by Council, with Councillors voting for a report to be prepared on the matter.

The petition, titled ‘Save Rotary Park: Keep It Green’ came before the Ordinary Meeting of Council (OMC) on Wednesday 5 October, with 268 signatures attached, opposing a Draft Master Plan put out by Council.

“According to a Moorabool Council Report, in the future there will be “new demand for parks walking paths and open space with shade and seating” (Recreation and Leisure Strategy 2015-2021, pg. 8). Rotary Park is a Play Space by MSC’s definition and this Draft Master Plan ignores the strategy by removing green space,” the petition reads.

“We object to building a toilet block to remove green space. We object to a new larger skate park taking away green space. We object to extending the Andy Arnold Centre building into the Park green space. We, the undersigned, are concerned residents who urge our Council representatives to reject this Master Plan and keep our park green.”

Cr Moira Berry moved to accept the petition, and Cr Rod Ward seconded the motion, with all Councillors present voting in favour. Cr Ally Munari was an apology at the meeting.

A report on the petition will now be prepared by Council officers for Council’s consideration at a future meeting.