Released 30/05/2016
The first round of community feedback on a prospective new neighbourhood in Tuggeranong has highlighted that protecting the Murrumbidgee corridor and preserving existing recreation uses are the two most important issues for the local community.
“In my discussions with residents and businesses in Tuggeranong, I have heard support for the idea of renewing and reinvigorating Tuggeranong, attracting more people to live in the Tuggeranong Valley and having a wider range of housing choices available in Tuggeranong.” Minister Gentleman said.
“But I have also heard, very clearly, that we need to protect the river corridor. We will need to carefully understand and protect the areas cultural and heritage values. This area is also home to important sporting and community groups and I want to see those groups stay in the area and continue to prosper.” Minister Gentleman added.
“The feedback that we have received about environmental values and existing community uses will guide the next stages of assessing this proposal. We will continue to engage with the Tuggeranong community throughout this process. My primary aim is to test whether this proposal is, on balance, a good thing for Tuggeranong. I want to hear as many voices as possible in this conversation.
“We will continue creating opportunities for people to get involved and help evaluate and shape this idea. We will also convene a community panel to draw on local expertise and knowledge to inform out next steps, with particular reference to protecting the river corridor.
“It is important that we strive for the highest quality outcome without compromising the environmental and recreational values of the area. It is an opportunity to create a showcase for Tuggeranong, not just in urban renewal and demonstrating what a great place Tuggeranong is, but also as an example of what this Government and this community can achieve by working closely together,” Minister Gentleman said.
To date, the ACT Government has heard from over 300 stakeholders including environmental groups, recreational clubs, the community council, business interest groups, retail owners and members of the community.
The next stage of engagement will allow more opportunities for all members of the public to voice their opinion. The ACT Government is keen to hear from as many Tuggeranong residents, workers and community representatives as possible.
“It’s important that we reach as far and wide as possible and gain a full understanding of what is important to the public. I expect the next phase of engagement with the community to commence in the coming weeks,” Minister Gentleman said.
“I would like to thank those that have contributed so far, and I look forward to even more involvement from people who have an interest in the future of Tuggeranong,” Minister Gentleman concluded.
For more information, visit http://haveyoursay.planning.act.gov.au/tuggeranongs-next-generation-subur
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases