By LAURA WAKELY
BRIMBANK City Council is working with residents on a concept plan for the former Sunvale school site.
The council has been working with Save Sunvale campaigners John Hedditch and Sean Spencer on the plans and a draft is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
The council resolved to make an offer for 1.1 hectares of the site, which is split into two zones, at a “substantial price” that will be revealed when and if the site is purchased.
An Education Department spokesperson refused to reveal the value of Sunvale, but it is expected to be well into the millions as one of the few large parcels of land in Sunshine.
Mr Spencer said he was still hoping the council could secure the entire site, including the land zoned for residential use, but understood it was an expensive option.
Residents have suggested a variety of infrastructure for the site including playgrounds, skate parks, sensory gardens and paths.
Mr Spencer said they were looking at incorporating a number of ideas into the plans including a playground, walking and cycling paths and seating.
“We need something that will get people out of the house and into the park to exercise and improve their health and well-being,” he said.
When the concept plans are completed Save Sunvale will use it to lobby the Government and are hoping some of the land can be gifted to council.
General Manager of Infrastructure and Environment Paul Younis said he had not received any notice from the Government on the future of the site.
If council is successful in obtaining the land, Mr Younis said there would be community-wide consultation.
For more information on the Save Sunvale campaign visit www.savesunvale.wordpress.com or contact savesunvale@gmail.com
