Consultation about the upgrade of William Taylor Memorial Sports Field at Thorneside has revealed strong community backing for the draft concept plan.
Mayor Karen Williams said the plan was developed by Redland City Council in collaboration with the primary tenant sporting clubs that call the sports field home – Mooroondu Sport and Recreation Club, Mooroondu Football Club, Wellington Point Cricket, Thorneside Community Tennis and Raiders Netball Club.
“It was reassuring to see club members, park users and locals felt confidence in the benefits the plan would provide, Cr Williams said.
“Nearly 300 survey responses, including written submissions, were received during the consultation period, and nearly three-quarters of those indicated support for the plan.
“Knowing the plan is on the right track, making the most of the space for the clubs and the wider community, is a strong step towards progressing the project.
“Council officers will continue to work with clubs, including smaller clubs like the Petanque Club Brisbane Southside, as the planning and design phases progress.
“Consultation outcomes also revealed that Redlands Coast is fairly evenly split between preferring a natural environment or sports theme for the new play space, with the project team appreciating the suggestion from numerous respondents of combining the two to create a natural/sports theme.
“For the BMX and skate park area, it was not too surprising to hear that the half pipe is a well-loved if ageing feature, with respondents also telling us they liked the range of elements, community-friendly feel, shady position, and co-location with other activities.
“Our skaters and BMX riders are excited about the prospect of better facilities, and we will soon be in touch with respondents who indicated interest in the targeted skate and bike facilities consultation that will be led by an external skate and bike park design consultant.
“Having users involved in the planning will help ensure a great space for people from all sections of the community, now and into the future.”
Division 10 Councillor Paul Bishop said he appreciated the time that so many community members took to have their say about the upgrade.
“It was really wonderful to hear that nearly 300 engaged local people took time to not only find out about the plans for William Taylor Memorial Sports Field but to let Council know what they think of them.
“Community feedback and input is invaluable when the aim is to create a space for everyone.
“I have been aware for some time that there has been a desire for changes in the area and am pleased that residents have expressed their views to council officers, so they can design for local needs.
“I thank every respondent for this expression of community spirit and participation.
“Consultation outcomes will now play a part in designing the new play space, further developing the site plan and informing the upcoming targeted consultation about the skate and BMX facilities.
“We know that many people really enjoy the relaxed feeling and natural environment within the area, while others like to exercise formally or informally at different times of the day, week and year.
“After feedback from clubs and individuals, I’m looking forward to seeing plans that make the best use of the space, with features that will maintain natural values yet also offer exciting options for skaters, scooters and BMX riders of varying ages and abilities.”