Community consultation has influenced Whittlesea council to change its proposal and retain the Lauries Field lake in Doreen, rather than turn it into an “ephemeral wetland”.
During the 18 November council meeting, council’s open space and planning co-ordinator Andrew Chau said there was an overwhelming rejection of the proposal to convert the lake.
“Seventy-four per cent of responses opposed this proposal, we have listened, and the draft plan … has been revised to retain the lake as a permanent water body,” he said.
More than 620 people have signed a petition on the change.org platform to save the lake.
“The plan has been shaped by a very engaged community with over 650 participants contributing across two phases,” Mr Chau said.
Other redevelopment proposals include converting part of the Lake Front Mews car park to parkland, improvements to the playspace, basketball and fitness equipment as well as the walking trail.
Councillor Deb Gunn moved the motion to open community consultation from November 21.
Cr Aidan McLindon said the consultation process should be a role model for other councils.
“When there’s contentious issues, you bring the community along, you get their input and compromise,” he said.
Cr Gunn encouraged residents to read the revised draft plan and provide their feedback, urging them to be polite.
“You get more flies with honey than you do with vinegar,” she said.
Cr Gunn said that in the future, she will advocate for a toilet block in the area when the budget allows.
The newly elected Whittlesea mayor, Lawrie Cox said council understands how important the lake is to the community.
“The future of Lauries Field is shaped by the people who use it and care deeply about their local park,” he said.
Council infrastructure and environment director Debbie Wood said the changes are a perfect example of community influencing outcomes.
“We have heard very clearly, keep the lake, protect the conservation area… so we’ve done this,” she said.
Community consultation on the proposal will be open from 21 November 21 to 19December through engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au
