Good afternoon everyone,
Thank you once again for your ongoing support. For those that have signed this petition and live in Bayside, I wanted to take this opportunity to raise a very very important matter that has arisen as a direct consequence of recent government steam rolling of land.
The Situation:
Several Bayside suburbs are facing a severe open space shortage that's about to get much worse. The data shows a stark inequality across our region:
Most Critical Areas (Below 30m² benchmark):
- Highett: 9m² per person (worst in Bayside - less than one-third of the benchmark)
- Hampton East: 21m² per person (second worst)
Brighton East: 22m² per person - Hampton: 23m² per person
With population growth estimates of 75-150% over the next 15-30 years, residents in Highett, Hampton East, Brighton East, and Hampton face an increasingly urgent crisis.
What's Making It Worse:
- The Suburban Rail Loop will take significant parkland from Sir William Fry Reserve (affecting Highett directly, but impacting the broader region)
- Limited replacement space commitments from authorities
- Upcoming infrastructure projects will further reduce available space
- New planning rules (ResCode reforms) allow higher density with reduced green space requirements
What Our Communities Desperately Need:
- Accessible active recreation zones for all ages
- Engaging playgrounds
- Green, well-lit walking paths
- Pocket parks
- Dog parks
- Equitable distribution of open space across all Bayside suburbs
🚨 URGENT: Two Critical Opportunities to Have Your Say
If you live in Highett, Hampton East, Brighton East, Hampton, or anywhere in Bayside - your feedback is essential:
Bayside Open Space Strategy (BOSS)
⏰ Deadline: August 31
- Review how the strategy addresses inequality between suburbs
- Push for specific commitments to the most deprived areas
- Action: Visit Bayside Council's "Have Your Say" page
SRL Replacement Space Consultation
⏰ Deadline: September 2
Ensure replacement space benefits the broader region, not just immediate area
Information Sessions (Open to All Residents):
- Bayside BOSS Info Session: Wed Aug 13, 6-7:30pm at Highett Neighbourhood Community House
- SRL Drop-ins: Sat Aug 16 & Thu Aug 21 (see times above)
Thank you everyone for your time again - the more input we have the louder our collective voices are, we can at least have the hope to save what we have for a little bit longer, and ensure the next generation have the right to open space as much as we do.
Kindest regards,
Rahsan.