As residents of Collingwood, we are deeply concerned about the push to install additional children's play equipment in our beloved newly renovated Cambridge Street Reserve. This move is being spearheaded after a thorough consultation is already complete and informed park design. A largely non-local pressure group have fabricated a media outrage and do not represent the needs and wishes of the majority of our local community.

We urge council to bear in mind that the majority of adults in this area have already voted overwhelmingly on the final design and the design was developed as a result of two rounds of consultation and policy analysis based on the unique demographics of the area, that demonstrate that only 2% of residents in the 200-metre park range, 0-4 years old.

The final park already has play equipment which represents a significant compromise already given that only 4 of the respondents to the first consult wanted play equipment, and children have been enjoying the open grassy area and current equipment.

We particularly are outraged by the proposal to encroach on green grass space to add to the play equipment. Collingwood desperately needs more green space which was the motivation for this park extension, and the grass is consistently covered with residents enjoying it.

 There are multiple playgrounds in short walking distance, as well as many plans for new parks in Collingwood. This is not the time or the place for more play equipment as this park is surrounded directly and closely by residential apartments, some with bedrooms 1.5 metres from current play equipment.

We are concerned about the process of this subsequent consultation, where of the 4 proposed possible options, every single one is an addition of more play equipment. If any changes are proposed, there should at least be one option for no changes.

Given council is re-consulting, we propose equal options that cater to all members of our community, such as a dog area or other communal use spaces. We are also concerned that this consultation is not able to prevent stacking of responses by those who it does not impact, such as individuals who are not residents in the area.

This consultation process is undemocratic as it does not specifically ask people within the radius of the park how they feel about it, nor does it provide any alternative options other than play equipment. We believe that tax dollars should be spent wisely on projects that benefit everyone in Collingwood and we ask for no more construction at this park.

We call upon you to support us in demanding a fair consultation process and exploring alternative options that serve all residents equally. Let’s preserve Cambridge Street Reserve as an open grassy space for everyone! Please sign this petition today!