Zoe Moffatt
Gisborne Fields Park is set to expand with council to begin the process to acquire 2464 square metres of additional land.
Macedon Ranges council approved the commencement of the statutory process to acquire 51 Coop Drive in Gisborne, at its meeting on July 26.
This site, along with 75 Willowbank Road, are the largest undeveloped sites remaining in the residential growth area between Willowbank and Brooking roads in Gisborne.
Council said the future development of these sites is critical to resolving a connected road network and providing open space in the area.
Councillor Dominic Bonanno said the acquisition is important to increase the open space available to the community.
“We all value open space here in the Macedon Ranges, it’s one of the many reasons why people choose to live here, including ourselves,” Cr Bonanno said.
“That’s why the acquisition of land such as 51 Coop Drive in Gisborne is so important, so we continue to leave the same legacy for our children and grandchildren.”
Under council’s planning scheme, developers must provide a five per cent open space contribution, however, council has sought an extra four per cent for a reserve area of 5439 square metres.
Deputy Mayor Jennifer Anderson said it is great the community is getting more than five per cent open space and the acquisition will be worthwhile.
“The reason for this acquisition is, five per cent open space may sound good, but for a growing population… five per cent of open space will only get you so much,” she said.
“Open spaces are really valuable in our community and the more people we’re putting in, the more I think it’s valued, and the important it is that we have it.
“I think it’s a really great outcome and I’m really looking forward to that area being developed for the use of that particular community.”
Residents will be able to speak on the matter at a delegated committee meeting on September 20.
