Foreword:
Each generation of Melburnians inherits the city’s magnificent and varied network of public parks and gardens, which we can proudly claim to be among the best of any city in the world.
With this inheritance comes not only the opportunity to use and enjoy these great assets, but also a responsibility to protect and enhance them.
We are pleased to introduce the City of Melbourne’s first Parks Policy, which is set out in this document and applies to more than 500 hectares of parkland managed by the city.
The policy describes our vision for the city's parks and gardens, and establishes guidelines for their effective management. These guidelines have been developed following consultation with community groups and other stakeholders in our parklands.
Key aspects of the policy include an assurance that there will be no net reduction in parkland area, and provision for continuing community involvement in the planning process. Importantly, the policy aims to meet the needs and expectations of all those who make use of our parklands, while ensuring their quality and beauty are preserved for future generations.
The policy is practical, succinct and contains specific actions to be put into practice. Overall, it is forward-looking and reflects the international significance of Melbourne’s outstanding parks and gardens. Council being responsible for their management is committed to implementing the actions and making the most of the opportunities presented in this Parks Policy.
