Liverpool City Council in New South Wales has worked closely with the local community in determining the future for the Carnes Hill Precinct, with positive results for all concerned.
In the process of initiating the planning process for development of the site, Council carried out research into what the community felt was lacking in the area. Some of the concerns identified included: a lack of youth programs, activities or services; a need for a library; limited formal and/or recreational options for children; and that existing facilities were operating at full capacity and could not cater for additional programs, activities and services.
The public exhibition period of the plans for the precinct concluded on a high note. Liverpool City Council’s General Manager, Farooq Portelli, said that the feedback received from the community during the exhibition period had been extremely positive, demonstrating the need for the vital facilities to be delivered.
Proposals for development of the Carnes Hill Precinct include: an indoor recreation centre (with a gym); a library; a public plaza with a water feature and public art; a skatepark and children’s playground; outdoor multipurpose sports courts; a community centre, picnic area, and café; half court basketball courts; cycling and walking paths; and parking to cater for the facilities.
The precinct will bring significant benefits to the local community and is designed to support the continuing growth of the combined surrounding area (incorporating Carnes Hill, Hoxton Park, West Hoxton, Prestons, Middleton Grange, Edmondson Park, Horningsea Park, and other new release suburbs), which is expected to reach a population of more than 100,000 in the future.
The next stage of community involvement in the project is a community feedback forum to be held in late October, where residents will be presented with the outcomes of the consultation thus far, and will be shown how Council has addressed the issues raised in response to the draft design.
“Residents are encouraged to come along to the community forum to find out more about the site plan and concept design and join the discussion about the feedback received during the community engagement process by Council to date,” said Mr Portelli.
“The development of a lively and active recreation and community precinct in Carnes Hill will provide much-needed social, cultural and recreation facilities for our community.”
