Highton residents fight to keep reserve
HUNDREDS of Highton residents are petitioning Geelong council to abandon “terribly shortsighted” plans to sell off one of the few areas of open space in the rapidly developing suburb.
About 250 signatures had been added to the petition to “Stop City of Greater Geelong selling the Esperence Cres Barrabool Hills Highton reserve” in less than two days.
The petition was launched after councillors last week voted in favour of selling off a trio of large properties, including the 5000sq m of “prime development land” on Esperence Cres in Highton. The public can make submissions to the city until June 22.
A city report noted the property had been purchased in 2008 to be considered for community facilities, but had been left vacant.
Highton resident Ben Jensen launched the petition, saying the council’s decision “beggars belief given the lack of accessible open space in the area”.
“The land is a perfect place for a park as evidenced by its location — easy walking access from hundreds of homes, and its current usage by children and adults for physical activities such as flying kites, playing ball games, or exercising with friends ‘boot camp’ style,” Mr Jensen’s petition noted.
“One would be forgiven for concluding the (city’s open space) policy is completely meaningless, at least in the Barrabool Hills part of Highton. Given the hilly nature of this part of Highton the excuse apparently provided by some councillors that ‘there’s plenty of open space in Highton’ does not pass the sniff test.
“It is terribly shortsighted to sell off the land when council cannot say whether in 10, 20, 30 years from now there may be a need to develop the land as a full blown ‘community centre’.”
Residents signing the petition also stressed the need for public open space in the area.
“As a close resident of this area I believe more green space and playground areas are needed for the community to be more active and promote a healthy living lifestyle,” Danielle Johnson wrote.
“The lack of playgrounds for children in this area is disgraceful, and the equipment outdated, especially given the rates we pay.
“Please reconsider and look to place a playground or park on this area which was promised for years.”
Jo Chadwick wrote: “I live in the area, which is devoid of adequate green spaces for recreation and good mental health. We need this space to remain as a reserve, as it was originally intended.”
When voting to support the sale of the land last week, Windermere ward councillor Anthony Aitken said the sites would “generate market interest, especially the Highton site which is prime development land”.
“Before we do decide to sell, we are asking for community feedback. I encourage residents in Highton and Corio in particular to have their say. If the city receives submissions about these properties, we will consider those views before making a final decision.”
Residents can submit feedback at geelongaustralia.com.au/yoursay