City of Whittlesea council has drafted a new Green Wedge Management Plan and is seeking community feedback.
Last year council asked locals to help shape their new 10-year plan, asking what they wanted done to protect the area.
Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said council wanted to make sure the plan reflected the priorities of the community.
“From our community consultation last year, we know these spaces are not just environmentally significant but provide our community with opportunities to enjoy recreation and leisure time,” she said.
“Council is committed to protecting our Green Wedge but also updating our plan to ensure we best represent what our community values.”
Known as the green wedge, these areas include national parks, forests, reservoirs, significant Aboriginal and European heritage sites, and farms.
More than 100 locals shared their thoughts on what they valued the most, including the positive effects on wellbeing from enjoying natural spaces, locally produced food, local jobs in agriculture and cultural and spiritual ties to the land.
“Council has considered all feedback and ideas to help us prepare this draft plan and now we are checking back in with our community to make sure we’ve captured your thoughts,” Ms Wilson said.
The development of the new plan follows that of the previous one which was adopted by council in 2011. It included work with local Aboriginal and rural communities, provided business support to farmers, and partnered with local groups to better care for the environment.
The new draft plan will be available for comment from Monday, May 23 2022.
Details: engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/green-wedge.
