Page 3476 - Week 10 - Tuesday, 17 September 2019
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committed to review and update the master plan in light of the success of the park over its first phase. This was a timely opportunity, considering the new and emerging opportunities in the park and the park’s increased usage by residents in the Molonglo and adjacent precincts.
During the consultation period from 2015 through to February 2016, there were 744 responses received. A revised master plan was then developed. This is a far-reaching vision to facilitate the park’s evolution into a highly utilised specialist centre for recreation and professional sports in Canberra. Cycling, equestrian, running and walking will remain the key activities within the park, but it will also become an integral recreation resource for residents of the surrounding region. The final master plan balances a range of new opportunities within the park whilst being considerate of the inaugural user groups.
We are seeking to expand the recreation offerings within the park. In her speech Miss C Burch alluded to the very significant investment in the Stromlo leisure centre and the commitment around the new Molonglo district playing fields. There has also been investment and development in the mountain bike trail network. Three new trails were constructed in the 2018-19 fiscal year and further trail development has been funded in the 2019-20 fiscal year. I was pleased to see that the Handlebar cafe and bike hire, from a structure from the old Westside lake side facility, has opened for business in the park and has quickly established itself as a popular pre and post ride coffee spot. How wonderful to see adaptive reuse, Mr Assistant Speaker.
We remain actively engaged with park users on future development harnessing Stromlo’s potential. Earlier this year we undertook a market sounding exercise to identify potential commercial and community sector investment interest in parts of the park. Our focus was for the development of onsite accommodation and other recreation and tourism developments that would value-add and enhance the visitor experience. We are seeking feedback for the development or management of other commercial ventures which fit with the broader park master plan and vision.
We have recently established a formal consultative committee with representation comprising all main sporting disciplines that are using the park as well as representatives from various ACT agencies. The primary role of this committee is to assist with the strategic implementation of the master plan.
Stromlo Forest Park has a strong future. We look forward to continuing to build on the world-class facilities that are currently in place and to ensure that the venue remains a welcoming place for all Canberrans. The park is of international standard. Our vision is for it to be an active recreation park capable of hosting world-class events, whilst also providing a range of facilities and opportunities for everyone who lives in the immediate region, in broader Canberra and in surrounding New South Wales.
The venue boasts a purpose-built event pavilion, a criterium cycling circuit, integrated cross-country running tracks, equestrian trails and numerous mountain bike tracks to suit all levels of rider ability. There are numerous trails and pathways suitable for runners and walkers keen on exploring our city’s natural environment. It is a venue
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