Footscray Park Masterplan: Council decision

Published on 27 August 2019

At this evening’s City Development Special Committee meeting Maribyrnong Councillors endorsed the rejection of the draft Footscray Park Masterplan as presented, and a community advisory panel will be established.

After hearing from our community, it is clear that thoughts about the proposal are divided. As such, the community advisory group – including community nominated and elected representatives – will advise Council on amendments to the Footscray Park Masterplan, the community benefits and possible location of the proposed youth academy, and conditions concerning lease and licensing arrangements should the academy proceed.

“We have such a thriving sport and recreation community here in the City of Maribyrnong, and we work hard to ensure everyone has the opportunity to improve their health and wellbeing. The park is also used for informal recreation by families and individuals, as well as being the location for community festivals and events," City of Maribyrnong Mayor, Cr Martin Zakharov said.

“We also want to ensure that the decisions we make provide the best possible outcome for our residents, and after hearing the feedback from the community, it is clear that there is more work that needs to be done to review the proposed football academy,” Cr Zakharov continued.

Once the community advisory group has developed their recommendations, an amended draft Footscray Park Masterplan will be developed and the community will be invited to comment on the plan prior to it going back to Council for a decision.