ACT Chief Minister and Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, Katy Gallagher, today reminded Canberrans to have their say on the recommendations of the draft master plan for Haig Park, which has been developed as part of the ACT Government's $6 million Town and District Park Upgrade Program.  

"As a major landscape feature of the inner north of Canberra, it is important Canberrans have their say on the future management of Haig Park," the Chief Minister said.

"Members of the community have already provided constructive feedback on the recommendations which will help finalise the master plan, which is a planning and concept design document that will guide the management, maintenance and any future upgrade of the park over the next five to ten years."

Recommendations of the draft Haig Park master plan include:

• reinforcing tree plantings throughout the park to ensure its heritage significance is retained;
• the creation of a vibrant central community space just to the north of the Braddon commercial area;
• upgrading frequently used walking paths to a higher quality surface;
• retaining open space areas on the sunnier northern edges of the park to encourage community use;
• upgrading park furniture and facilities for a more unified and consistent presentation;
• providing additional interpretive signage and information;
• installing community and commemorative artwork in the park; and
• improving park lighting along with selective tree pruning to provide a safer environment and to enhance visibility, particularly at night.

"With only three days left in the consultation process, I encourage all interested Canberrans to provide feedback if they haven't already," the Chief Minister concluded.

Feedback on the draft master plan can be made by emailing communityengagement@act.gov.au or by picking up a hardcopy feedback form from the Dickson or Civic libraries. The draft master plan can be viewed online at www.timetotalk.act.gov.au.

Consultation commenced in early June and will close at 5 pm Friday 13 July 2012.