SUBMISSIONS for public comment on the future of Sir Frederick Samson Park will be closing next week as part of the City of Fremantle’s plan to renew and upgrade its facilities.
According to the City of Fremantle, community submissions will be used “to enhance the ecological and social fabric” of the park, and contribute to the masterplan and management plans for its “upgrade, renewal, and conservation works”.
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The Park is notably a Bush Forever site, which “ensures bushland protection” within the Perth metropolitan area, and is Fremantle’s largest natural park.
The City of Fremantle say they will be investing approximately $2.93 million in the Park’s upgrades, which will include a seasonal wetland to prevent annual flooding, and public facilities including parking, toilets, signage, playgrounds, and barbeques.
Friends of Samson Park member Jean McKay says the survey is a “really good opportunity” for residents to have their say about the upgrades they would like to see prioritised during the Park’s redevelopment.
“It’s really important that people understand why the park is so valuable, being a Bush Forever site and having access to all of the beautiful trees,” Ms McKay said.
Ms McKay says it has been “so good” to see community engagement in the Park’s upgrades,] which has reached at least 1000 people both online and an onsite event at the end of last year, according to the City of Fremantle.
“There was a slight degree of scepticism about whether it’s actually going to happen, but we have to remind people that the funding has been allocated for at least the first year,” Ms Mckay said.
“It’s really exciting.”
The first stage of public comment can be submitted in various forms, including on the My Say Freo page, in person at the Walyalup Civic Centre, and via email.
The opportunity for residents to join the Park’s community reference group is also part of the survey.
Submissions will be closing next Wednesday, January 15.
More information is available on the My Say Freo page on the City of Fremantle website.
by KATHERINE KRAAYVANGER