Precinct plan input sought

PARKS Victoria and Yarra Ranges Council are inviting the public to provide feedback on the final draft Olinda Precinct Plan.
As part of a joint project, the aim is to establish a long-term strategy for the former Olinda Golf Course site and its connection with the surrounding precinct.
Over the past year, Parks Victoria and Yarra Ranges Council have been working together with the local community and other key stakeholders to develop a clear future direction for the former Olinda Golf Course site and its surrounds.
Many people have contributed their ideas and local knowledge to develop the draft plan.
Following an initial opportunity to provide ideas in March, over 400 responses were received on the initial draft plan presented to the community in July 2016.
“We have received a significant amount of feedback from the community to date, and we’re confident that once it’s complete, the Olinda Precinct Plan will establish a clear long-term vision that reflects the needs of the Olinda community,” Parks Victoria District manager, Craig Bray, said.
Key recommendations in the plan include:
* Olinda Green – A green multipurpose event space that can also act as an additional field for training and junior sport;
* Playspace – a new all-abilities playground that caters for a range of ages and features a picnic shelter and barbecues;
* Realigning part of the Chalet Road to improve connections between the Olinda Green and the Olinda Pool and Community House and
* Investigate relocating Olinda Hall to be closer to the Playspace and other community facilities.
“Much of the feedback to date has centred around the need to protect the green and open nature of the former golf site,” Mr Bray said.
“The final draft plan has been developed based on the feedback, and we’re expecting this final round of consultation will help put the finishing touches on the plan.
“It’s been fantastic to see the community get so involved in shaping the development of the Olinda Precinct Plan so far.
“This is the third and final phase of consultation for the plan, and it’s important the community get involved once again, so we can ensure the final plan reflects the needs of the Olinda community and provides excellent opportunities for recreation and tourism that will benefit the local economy.”
Comments on the plan can be submitted to Parks Victoria until Monday 14 November.
Parks Victoria and Yarra Ranges Council will collate all the feedback received and finalise the Olinda Precinct Plan, which will be finalised in December 2016.
Further information, including the draft plan, is available at www.parkweb.vic.gov.au.
For more information on the Olinda Precinct Plan, call Parks Victoria on 13 19 63.