The government’s draft Greater Sydney Parklands Trust Bill is now on exhibition for comment.

This bill would legislate the umbrella agency that is now managing Sydney metropolitan parklands including Centennial Park, Moore Park, Queens Park, Callan Park, Parramatta Park, Western Sydney Parklands and Fernhill Estate.

You can give feedback on the Draft Exposure Bill until 29 October > HERE.

I’m concerned that the legislation has been drafted to facilitate the Carsingha unsolicited proposal to intensify commercialisation and development of the former showground lands, which are part of Moore Park, through expanded provisions for commercial leases and licences. I welcome changes to outlaw parking on Moore Park however the bill provides no certainty,  leaving dates and locations to be spelled out in the regulations.

The pandemic has shown us how vital open space is for health and well-being. The government must prioritise public open space and work to expand the parks estate in the city.
See the Sydney Morning Herald report > HERE. See my February questions to the minister about the EQ proposal > HERE, which I intend to follow up.

The umbrella Alliance for Public Parklands aims to inform and engage the community about this plan > HERE.