Member for Davidson, Jonathan O'Dea has used the St Ives 'Youth Precinct' Project to highlight the positive impact of the Community Building Partnership Program, speaking in NSW Parliament this evening.
"I welcome this week's budget announcement that the Community Building Partnerships Program is to be extended over the next year with an allocation of $35 million," Mr O'Dea said.
"The Program supports the work of community groups and local councils in delivering community infrastructure.
"Last year in Davidson, 14 grants were approved on my recommendation, with the largest being $150,000. This was to assist local Scouts and Girl Guides to move premises and thus facilitate Ku-ring-gai Council to develop the St Ives 'Youth Precinct'.
"As part of a 'plaza style' development, the 'Youth Precinct' will include extension of the existing skate park, a BMX track and a playground area, integrated with a welcoming passive recreation area with park benches. It will also include the existing 'Fitz Youth Centre' and a cycling path around the Village Green," Mr O'Dea said.
"The aim is to provide a family friendly environment where people of all ages can enjoy the great outdoors. Increased residential density as a result of St Ives being designated a Town Centre has made the need for such an area even more important.
"It's hoped the area will help address anti-social behaviour and build a stronger community.
Mr O'Dea told Parliament, "The NSW Government's Community Building Partnership Program is an excellent agent for such positive community development. It allows individuals and organisations within the local communities to join forces with the State Government to promote necessary and meaningful projects".
"I commend Ku-ring-gai Council for initiating and contributing considerable funding to the overall project.
"It highlights the effectiveness of local groups and the State Government working together under the Community Building Partnership Program," Mr O'Dea concluded.
