1 week Ago By jimjin
Zoe Moffatt Macedon Ranges residents are speaking out against a council plan for Stanley Park, saying it inhibits public enjoyment of the park, which was the original intention. The six-hectare forest, grassland and recreation park is located just off Mount Macedon Road at 15 Salisbury Road, and is co-managed by council and a community asset committee (CAA). Council sought feedback on an infrastructure master plan until April 19.
The plan proposed to provide a better balance of day tourism, local recreation and protection of vulnerable environmental features, which will include the stage removal of existing infrastructure. This includes the existing play equipment, surrounding mowed grass and carpark, as the plan said they require replacement or renewal over time. Council said the areas would be rehabilitated within the footprint of existing, disturbed areas.
Council also noted the plan should be read in conjunction with an environmental management plan, prepared in May, 2023. Mount Macedon resident Deborah Keniry said the park used to be enjoyed by many visitors, hosting family picnics, children’s birthday parties and more. “Back in 1919, the Upper Macedon Progress Association recognised the community benefit of acquiring this land and raised .
.. the finances to do this, declaring the park a place for public recreation,” she said.
“I see it as even more necessary for us today with our larger population, the decline in outdoor physical activity [and] a decline general.
