Brendan O’Connor congratulates locals over park win

Thursday, 18 August 2011

 Brendan O’Connor, the Federal Member for Gorton, congratulated local activists and the state MP for Keilor Natalie Hutchins today after the decision by Brimbank Council to withdraw the proposed sale of twelve local open spaces.

“It’s a win for concerned residents, for community activists like the ‘Our Parks Not for Sale’ campaign and most of all, for the locals who use and enjoy the green spaces, most particularly children,” Mr O’Connor said.

“Many of my constituents have contacted the office expressing outrage at the prospect of the sale, and I was happy to support the campaign led by the Member for Keilor Natalie Hutchins in favour of retaining these green spaces for community use.”

Earlier this month, Mr O’Connor wrote to the Brimbank City Council, expressing “strong reservations” about the decision to sell the land to developers and noting that the proposal had not been accompanied by a compelling reason to sell the properties.

“These publicly-owned spaces are greatly valued by many in the community. They are utilised by residents – young and old – for recreation and enjoyment,” he said.

“The breadth and depth of the outrage expressed by the community is demonstrated by the sheer volume of the respondents to the Council’s request for submissions, with over 700 received.

“Local parks provide a safe space in which people can meet and relax and promote a sense of community spirit, social wellbeing and good health.”

Mr O’Connor echoed the sentiments of many who attended the recent public demonstrations against the move, noting concern that “The decision-makers in question - who do not live in the local area and have not been elected by the local constituency - are not sensitive to local concerns”.

The proposal had been widely criticised in local media, and had also gained the attention of concerned people right across the state.