Following a comprehensive community consultation and months of detailed analysis, one of Council’s most significant strategic plans is now on exhibition for community feedback.
The Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan (CISP) establishes a 30-year vision for community facilities and open spaces to help guide short, medium and long-term planning and investment.
CEO Andrew Constance said almost 5,500 responses have been received across three engagement campaigns so far, helping to create a roadmap for how Council will look after and improve its pools, parks, playgrounds, sports facilities and community buildings over the next 30 years.
“The volume of feedback is an indication to me of how passionate our community is about the future of recreation in our city and gives us an evidence-based picture of where we need to focus to benefit the most people,” Mr Constance said.
“It’s now time to check back in with the community to test the findings across our 600-plus facilities before the final plan is presented to Council later this year,” he said.
“We were thrilled to see a wide range of community feedback including more than 2,400 responses from people aged in their forties or under.”
The document provides a clear picture of where investment will be needed over the next 30 years, with recommendations focused on directing funding to areas where it will deliver the greatest impact, expected to be $800 million over this period.
Insights from the survey and analysis include:
- The Shoalhaven has a good number of pools, parks, sports fields and community buildings for its population and there is an emerging demand for additional facilities such as basketball courts, pump tracks and a synthetic athletics track.
- Many community facilities, including pools and clubhouses, are ageing. Upgrades should focus on delivering the greatest community benefit, guided by evidence and community feedback.
- Over $100 million worth of investment is required to bring the community’s most valued facilities up to an appropriate standard over the next 10 years, with Council to seek support from all levels of government to deliver as many of these projects possible.
- Approximately 30 smaller parks and facilities are being suggested for gradual divestment over time, with additional recommendations to decommission components of facilities, including some playgrounds. These recommendations are based on detailed technical assessments and community feedback.
The community is invited to explore the interactive map showcasing more than 600 open spaces and facilities open for feedback. This innovative tool allows users to click on a location of interest, review the feedback and choose to provide comments.
The Draft CISP is on exhibition from Monday 20 April until Wednesday 20 May.
