Edgars Creek secured as Coburg’s newest park
A press release we’ve been wanting to see for some years has finally arrived!
from http://www.premier.vic.gov.au/component/content/article/10953.html
From the Minister for Planning
Friday, 02 July 2010
Moreland residents will be able to enjoy Edgars Creek as permanent parkland after Planning Minister Justin Madden reached an agreement to resolve the impasse on the future of the land.
Mr Madden today announced that 10.7 hectares of VicRoads land along Edgars Creek will become Crown Land and reserved as permanent parkland under the management of Moreland City Council.
Mr Madden said some land is currently developed parkland and managed by the Council. A flood free area to the north of the existing parkland is now available to be added to the park and the Council can now provide additional sporting facilities.
“This is a brilliant result, not just for the community in Coburg but for all Victorians who use and enjoy the Edgars Creek and Merri Creek trails and rivers,” he said.
“This agreement to make land along Edgars Creek a dedicated park ensures future generations can continue to enjoy this unique part of Melbourne’s natural environment.
“Cyclists, pedestrians, residents – and sporting enthusiasts - can now be assured this land will never become anything other than natural parkland.
“The longstanding impasse has been resolved following the report of the Edgars Creek Taskforce which was appointed to ensure park land and biodiversity - as well as pedestrian and cycling facilities - were considered in deciding the future of these pieces of land.”
Member for Pascoe Vale Christine Campbell chaired the Taskforce and said there was overwhelming support for the retention of parkland and open space.
“The taskforce conducted a thorough investigation of the most appropriate use of the site and worked closely with Moreland City Council to ensure that community views about the future of the land were considered,” Ms Campbell said.
“Edgars Creek plays an important role in Coburg and the agreement to ensure Edgars Creek remains public open space is great news for community.”
Mr Madden said the Brumby Labor Government had worked closely with the Coburg community and Moreland City Council to ensure the future use of this surplus government land was in keeping with the community’s needs.
“Coburg is a growing and changing community and it’s vital to ensure we continue to provide open space and parklands as we manage sustainable growth,” Mr Madden said.
“Retaining land for parkland in the Inner North is one of the strategic planning objectives in Melbourne @ 5 million, our long-term plan for managing sustainable growth.
“It’s fantastic to see Edgars Creek returned to the community as we deliver on this plan.”