City of Clarence has completed its last stage of extensive community consultation for the Clarence City Heart Plan, confirming strong public support for its vision to revitalise the city.
Over a two-month period, the community were invited to provide feedback on key aspects of the conceptual Plan, incorporating cultural recognition, environmental sustainability, public spaces, housing, economic growth and transport solutions.
Clarence Mayor Brendan Blomeley said 72.3 per cent of respondents indicated they supported the Plan overall, demonstrating the community’s enthusiasm for shaping the future of the city.
“The Plan sets out a bold vision for a vibrant, sustainable and connected Clarence,” Mayor Blomeley said.
“What we heard through the consultation was positive and our community are, at large, right behind the vision we have for turning the Clarence CBD into a vibrant city centre.
“The consultation revealed a particular community concern regarding the concept for housing in Charles Hand Park and at Council meeting last night we responded to that concern.
“Given the community’s interest and sense of connection many have with Charles Hand Park, at Council meeting last night we committed to removing the key worker housing concept from the Plan.
“I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to complete the consultation survey or provide a written submission. The community’s concerns were genuine, and we listened to the wants of our community.
“I feel we now have a clear way forward to finalise the Plan, before it comes back to Council for endorsement.
Other key themes from the consultation included:
- a desire for improved community facilities like playgrounds, BBQ areas and event spaces
- opportunities to address parking availability and traffic congestion, particularly in Bellerive and Rosny
- recognition of Aboriginal heritage and its role in shaping the city’s identity
- a call for a more vibrant night-time economy and expanded retail, hospitality and cultural opportunities
- support for better public transport and active transport options while maintaining car parking access.
View the survey report on the Yoursay website.
Mayor Blomeley said the community consultation employed a best-practice comprehensive approach to ensure diverse perspectives were considered.
“The consultation reflected the community’s needs and aspirations, engaging with residents, businesses and stakeholders in many different ways over a two-month period,” Mayor Blomeley said.
“We were pleased to see strong community engagement in this final stage, with over 400 survey and written submissions received.
“We remain committed to delivering a Plan that delivers a thriving CBD, servicing the needs and wants of our growing and diverse community.”
View the Clarence City Heart Plan Final Draft Consultation report on the Yoursay website.